ABSTRACT

Written by a diverse range of scholars, this accessible introductory volume asks: What is implicit bias? How does implicit bias compromise our knowledge of others and social reality? How does implicit bias affect us, as individuals and participants in larger social and political institutions, and what can we do to combat biases? An interdisciplinary enterprise, the volume brings together the philosophical perspective of the humanities with the perspective of the social sciences to develop rich lines of inquiry. Its twelve chapters are written in a non-technical style, using relatable examples that help readers understand what implicit bias is, its significance, and the controversies surrounding it. Each chapter includes discussion questions and additional annotated reading suggestions, and a companion webpage contains teaching resources. The volume is an invaluable resource for students—and researchers—seeking to understand criticisms surrounding implicit bias, as well as how one might answer them by adopting a more nuanced understanding of bias and its role in maintaining social injustice.

chapter |19 pages

Introducing Implicit Bias

Why This Book Matters

chapter 2|16 pages

The Embodied Biased Mind

chapter 3|20 pages

Skepticism About Bias

chapter 4|22 pages

Bias and Knowledge

Two Metaphors

chapter 5|17 pages

Bias and Perception

chapter 8|21 pages

Moral Responsibility for Implicit Biases

Examining Our Options

chapter 10|20 pages

The Specter of Normative Conflict

Does Fairness Require Inaccuracy?

chapter 11|22 pages

Explaining Injustice

Structural Analysis, Bias, and Individuals

chapter |18 pages

Glossary