Implicit bias refers to unconscious attitudes, beliefs, or stereotypes that influence our thoughts, decisions, and actions. It is a type of bias that operates at a subconscious level and is often outside of our conscious awareness or control.

Implicit bias can develop as a result of exposure to cultural messages and stereotypes, past experiences, and unconscious associations.

Implicit bias is not meant to be bad, but rather designed to help the brain function more efficiently by creating cognitive decision-making shortcuts. However, the problem arises when implicit biases persist even when they are not necessary and make us less able to recognize or accept something counter-stereotypic or require more proof to believe it. In those cases, implicit bias can have a significant impact on our behavior and decision-making.

Challenging implicit bias takes effort, but it is important to recognize and challenge implicit bias. Lazy thinking is problematic thinking, and learning about implicit bias gives us the ability to take those thoughts to trial.

Challenging implicit bias requires increased self-awareness and a willingness to engage in ongoing learning and introspection. This can involve regularly exposing oneself to diverse perspectives, actively seeking out opposing viewpoints, and engaging in regular self-reflection to identify and challenge one’s own biases.

Summing-up: Implicit bias, also known as implicit prejudice or implicit attitude, is a negative attitude, of which one is not consciously aware. Identity and fight against it is important to improve our judgements and decisions.