Thinking at the Speed of Bias: How to Shift Our Unconscious Filters

by Sara Taylor

Overview

A practical guide to tackling unconscious bias in a polarized world.

Learn to recognize your unconscious bias and create positive change.

Respected DEI expert Sara Taylor presents a down-to-earth guide on how to tackle unconscious biases and foster true equity in our rapidly changing world. Through relatable examples and practical strategies, readers learn to deliberately slow down their thought processes and become aware of their filters in various situations. Taylor encourages readers to question their own assumptions by asking, "Do I know that what I'm thinking is actually true?" and "Why might I be reacting this way?"

The book demonstrates the importance of a clear set of competencies, skills, and strategies for addressing unconscious bias. By developing a culturally competent mindset and using a shared, holistic language to discuss these issues, readers gain the tools to understand, discuss, and implement change both at home and in the workplace. This approach avoids blame or shame, making it accessible and empowering for everyone.

The book's insights extend beyond individuals; it demonstrates how organizations can scale up cultural competence to transform their structures and systems. With a strong sense of hope, readers are empowered to make a difference, creating a more just and equitable world for all.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781523006786
Publisher:	Berrett-Koehler Publishers
Publication date:	07/09/2024
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	192
File size:	902 KB

About the Author

Sara Taylor is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and consultant on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She has 35 years of DEI practitioner experience, including 21 years leading deepSEE Consulting, which she founded. Sara is the author of Filter Shift, which has sold 14,000 copies, and received a master's degree in Diversity and Organization Development from the University of Minnesota. Sara is known for her DEI work connecting the theory and practice of cultural competence to the effects and consequences of unconscious bias, which is the focus of this book.

Editorial Reviews

Lots of people talk about bias, but this book empowers us with practical tools to challenge it. That’s what every individual and every workplace needs!”
—Jacqueline Williams-Roll, Chief Human Resources Officer, General Mills, Inc.

“In this work, Taylor does more than merely expose the impact of implicit biases; she provides discrete tools to empower individuals and institutions to move beyond their biases toward creating healthy, inclusive cultures.”
—Christopher E. Manning, Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, University of Southern California
 
“The transformative concepts in this book, tangibly outlined through stories and introspective questions, have transformed my thinking, my development, and my leadership.”
—Penny Wheeler, MD, retired CEO, Allina Health, and retired Regent, University of Minnesota
 
“As the leader of a large social service organization, I never really understood how my filters impacted the whole organization until I read this work. I know not only that they do but how to begin the journey of shifting those filters. Fantastic book!”
—John Estrem, CEO, Hammer & NER

“This brilliantly written guide makes it easy to understand how biases occur and clearly explains how we can be intentional in our decisions to reduce the impact of our unconscious filters in our actions. I strongly recommend that everyone read this book!”
—Julie Morgas Baca, County Manager, Bernalillo County, New Mexico

“Sara’s work provides a framework that goes beyond talk and philosophy to what actually works. Her approach has opened the eyes of many and made us better people and better leaders as a result.” 
—Shari Ballard, CEO, Minnesota United FC

“This transformative book provides a compelling exploration of hidden biases and offers invaluable tools for reshaping them by illuminating the unconscious filters that shape our thinking and behavior. It is an essential read for those committed to fostering understanding and inclusivity.”
—Mary Macon, LMSW, Culture and Inclusion Manager, Central Arkansas Water

From the Publisher