Problem

Most of us like to consider ourselves to be fairly enlightened, unbiased, fair, etc., but most will also admit that we are not completely free from stereotypical assumptions and prejudices. Let's begin by watching this short video as we consider the cultural continuum.

https://youtu.be/WlJQtoZJFDY

Harvard University created something called Project Implicit in 1998 as collaboration designed to educate the public about implicit biases and then collecting data through a test they created called the Implicit Association Test (IAT. In the spirit of self-awareness that is a key objective of this course, check out Harvard's online IAT site. Complete one or two of the following assessments here : Race, Arab-Muslim, Gender-Career, Sexuality, and Skin-tone.

As you are thinking about your experience of the IAT, watch the following TED Talk by Verna Myers entitled "How to Overcome Our Biases: Walk Boldly Toward Them."

https://youtu.be/uYyvbgINZkQ

As you process your results, think about your reactions to these three experiences. Be aware of where you are reflexively responding or reacting. What is there to learn about the experience of both watching the videos and taking these tests? Is there something new that you are considering? Challenge yourself to be open to the process of being uncomfortable with some of these ideas.