Chapter 1 Understanding Our Biases

We all carry biases within us. The crucial aspect is how we choose to navigate this challenging reality. Opting for a clear path is not straightforward; every available choice presents its own difficulties.

One might choose to ride the unpredictable waves of fluctuating thoughts and beliefs, remaining on unstable ground while encountering endless contradictions. Alternatively, one could anchor themselves to firm beliefs that dismiss biases and assert their own correctness. Although the latter option might appear simpler, it often becomes a heavy burden. Those who adopt this stance may feel a nagging awareness of the falsehood they cling to. The repetition of a falsehood does not render it true; instead, it embeds itself within the deceiver’s psyche. Many who fall into this trap may feel as though the world is conspiring against them, and they aren't entirely mistaken—reality tends to challenge anything that fails to engage with it meaningfully, favoring fiction instead.

Some individuals opt for an enigmatic persona, presenting puzzling contradictions that intrigue us and prompt questions about their reasoning. This behavior might misleadingly suggest they are critical thinkers, when in fact, their thoughts may be a jumble of rigid, unfounded ideas trapped in a mind that defends itself against contradictory evidence. I often recognize someone in this category when they lash out at random targets while simultaneously praising those of equal or lesser merit.

For those who embrace the first approach, the path is fraught with challenges and is never-ending. Living with the acceptance that we might be mistaken or that our beliefs could evolve over time is both daunting and draining.

Given the inherent difficulties of our situation, we shouldn't invest our energy in persuading those who are naturally resistant to changing their views about the merits of doing so.

In the video "We all have implicit biases. So what can we do about it?" Dushaw Hockett discusses the nature of biases and practical steps we can take to address them.

Section 1.1 The Weight of Denial

Living in denial of our biases can lead to a false sense of security, yet it often results in inner turmoil. Many might find themselves at odds with reality, creating an exhausting cycle of justification.

Subsection 1.1.1 The Illusion of Critical Thinking

Chapter 2 The Importance of Self-Awareness

In "Are you biased? I am," Kristen Pressner explores how recognizing our own biases can lead to greater awareness and understanding of ourselves and others.