Prof. Dr. Sigrun Korsching (Universität zu Köln)

Unconscious bias: a basic brain function.

Abstract: Unconscious bias describes an ability of our brain to quickly evaluate situations based on previously learned associations, without noticing that this is being done – the process is not accessible to the consciousness, only the outcome. The content of these previously learned associations is strongly shaped by cultural traditions (aka prejudices). We will describe several experiments demonstrating unconscious bias – even in highly trained scientists. We will also address the question: Is it bias or is it judgement? Likely consequences of and possible countermeasures against unconscious bias will be discussed.