• Unintended bias also known as Unconscious Bias refers to biases that individuals hold or exhibit without conscious awareness or intention. It is a form of bias that operates at a subconscious or automatic level, influencing our thoughts, perceptions, and action without us being fully aware of it.
• Unintended biases can be formed through various social, cultural, and environmental influences. They are often rooted in our upbringing, education, media exposure, and societal norms. These biases can shape our attitudes, judgments, and behaviors, even if we consciously believe in equality and fairness.
• What sets unintended bias apart is that individuals may genuinely hold egalitarian values and consciously strive to treat others fairly and without prejudice. However, due to the ingrained nature of biases, they can still manifest at an unconscious level, affecting our decision-making processes and interactions with others.
• Unintended biases can impact various aspects of life, including hiring and promotion decisions, evaluations, customer service, and interpersonal interactions. They can contribute to disparities and inequalities in areas such as employment, education, healthcare, and criminal justice.
• It is important to recognize and address unintended biases because they can perpetuate systemic inequalities and hinder diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. By increasing awareness, individuals and organizations can implement strategies to mitigate the impact of unintended bias, such as diversity training, promoting empathy and perspective-taking, fostering inclusive environments, and implementing unbiased decision-making processes.
• Overall, understanding and acknowledging the existence of unintended bias is crucial for fostering a more equitable and inclusive society. By actively working to uncover and address these biases, individuals can strive for fair treatment and create a more just and inclusive world.

For more info visit: www.humancapital.natstandard.co.za