The Cambridge Handbook of Implicit Bias and Racism

Implicit bias is a hot topic in social and behavioral sciences and popular culture, with interventions to reduce it introduced in police forces, educational settings, and workplaces. This handbook documents the current state of knowledge and proposes directions for future research to alleviate bias, discrimination, and inter-group conflict.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 500 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Implicit bias, the notion that the unconscious mind may hold and utilize unfavorable assessments of social groups that cannot be measured through explicit measures of prejudice, is a highly debated topic in the social and behavioral sciences. It has also permeated popular culture, leading to the implementation of interventions aimed at reducing implicit bias in various sectors, including police forces, educational institutions, and workplaces. Despite these efforts, researchers continue to grapple with a profound understanding of this phenomenon.

To address this gap, this handbook brings together a diverse array of scholars, representing a wide range of perspectives, to document the current state of knowledge in the field of implicit bias measurement. It serves as a valuable resource for individuals and organizations seeking to alleviate bias, discrimination, and inter-group conflict, including academics from psychology, sociology, political science, and economics, as well as government agencies, non-governmental organizations, corporations, judges, lawyers, and activists.

In the first chapter, the handbook provides an overview of implicit bias, its historical origins, and its impact on individuals and society. It explores the various forms of bias, such as racial, gender, and age bias, and discusses the mechanisms through which these biases operate. The chapter also highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing implicit bias, as it can perpetuate inequality and discrimination.

The subsequent chapters delve into the measurement of implicit bias. The authors discuss the development and validation of measures, the use of different research methods, and the challenges associated with measuring implicit bias. They explore the role of technology in enhancing the accuracy and reliability of implicit bias measurement and discuss the potential applications of these measures in various settings, such as hiring practices, education, and healthcare.

The handbook also addresses the implications of implicit bias for individuals and society. It explores the psychological and physiological effects of bias on individuals, including the impact on self-esteem, mental health, and behavior. It also examines the societal consequences of bias, such as discrimination, inequality, and social unrest. The chapter highlights the need for interventions to address implicit bias, including training programs, policy changes, and cultural shifts.

In conclusion, this handbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date exploration of the concept of implicit bias and its measurement. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to understand and address this critical issue. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives, the handbook proposes directions for future research in the field and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing bias and discrimination.

ISBN-13: 9781108794435