A stereotype is a social perception that categorises individuals based on their membership in a particular group or their physical attributes. It involves making a generalisation about a group and then attributing those characteristics to individual members of that group. This process simplifies and often distorts the understanding of individuals within the group, potentially leading to biases and discrimination based on preconceived notions rather than individual merit or characteristics. Where do you think these stereotypical beliefs come from?

Why do you think men are better at science than women?
Why do you think overweight people are unhealthy?
Why do you think Muslims are more violent than Christians?

I think by delving into these questions we will prompt reflection on the complex interplay of cultural, historical, and psychological factors that shape our perceptions and attributions of certain traits or behaviours to specific groups. Contact me via e-mail and let’s explore the underlying assumptions and biases that influence your societal perspectives.

Your brain tells you that you are safe with people who look, think and act similar, this is one of our many and various unconscious biases. These learned stereotypes are very powerful as they are so deeply ingrained into our persona, for example, the biases we all hold around race, religion, gender, power, and privilege structures. Playing on our unconscious biases and fears is the bread and butter of both political and marketing campaigns. In order to ‘judge’ without undue fear, you need to look at your own biases and the fears that sit under them. I think we can overcome our unconscious biases by becoming aware and being open to change.

“Life is too short to worry about stupid things. Have fun. Fall in love. Regret nothing and do not let people bring you down. Study, think, create and grow. Teach yourself and teach others.”

— Professor Richard Feynman

Yesterday morning, I asked a woman if she needed help in carrying her pram (a four-wheeled baby carriage) down the stairs – I have to admit that I would not have asked a man if he were in the same position. I know that my actions were not a problem, they were courteous and friendly but underneath I may have unexamined bias about the difference in roles and capabilities of men and women. Contact me via e-mail and let me know how you deal with your implicit biases.

Sources of convictions

Being aware and open to change