Often times books on implicit bias locate it in individual minds, without taking into consideration the social environments that promote bias. Ross approaches unconscious bias as a natural cognitive mechanism exhibited by all humans, the remnant of an evolutionary need for survival. However, Ross also acknowledges that bias is driven by the cultural spaces one occupies, and is embedded in social institutions (e.g., legal, health care). In this book Ross uses research from social and medical sciences to support explanations of how unconscious bias is manifested in everyday life. One of the strongest aspects of the book is that its last two chapters are devoted to suggestions for how people can combat expressions of their own individual bias, as well as providing steps that organizations can take to combat bias while making decisions about talent. The appendix expands on organizational solutions by providing more ways to identify and navigate bias in talent management. The text is engaging and addresses a general audience. This is a must read for everyone who wants to learn about bias or is interested in taking the steps (individually or on an organizational level) to combat it. Highly recommended for all readers.

Choice Reviews

[An] important text on our human predisposition towards stereotyping our fellow human beings for often superficial, inaccurate, and unfair reasons. It isn’t a book written in some sort of social and cultural vacuum. Ross addresses the many social movements and changes our world has endured in recent history, such as the #metoo movement, and touches on the multiple and systemic ways our biases visit injustice on otherwise fine or innocent human beings.

Refreshing Reads

The author explores the many biases that we each carry within us. Most people do not see themselves as biased towards people of different races or different genders. And yet, in virtually every area of modern life, disparities remain. Breakthroughs in the cognitive and neurosciences give some idea why our results seem inconsistent with our intentions. Bias is natural to the human mind, a survival mechanism that is fundamental to our identity. And, overwhelmingly, it is unconscious. Incorporating anecdotes from today’s headlines alongside case studies from over 30 years as a nationally prominent diversity consultant, Ross helps readers understand how unconscious bias impacts our day-to-day lives and particularly our daily work lives. He also provides examples of behaviors that the reader can engage in to disengage the impact of their own biases.

Journal of Consumer Policy

Howard Ross, a diversity expert, consultant, and founder of Cook-Ross, Inc., writes an in-depth look into the human mind and explores the known and unknown biases that constantly shape our thoughts and actions. . . .I believe this text would be helpful for business students and those who are currently in the workforce. . . .[This book] could be a valuable addition for those interested in the topic of bias and how it is manifested.

The Christian Librarian

getAbstract recommends Ross's insights to human resource professionals, managers and leaders dealing with a diverse workforce, and to anyone seeking to learn, grow and evolve.

getAbstract

We are certain we are 'one' person, not a thousand different selves reacting unconsciously to thousands of different stimuli. Everyday Bias is an important guide to seeing oneself the way others might.

Ken Burns, filmmaker