Bias

In theory

A bias can be described as the subtle and implicit behavior with which favoritism is shown towards one group over another often minoritized or marginalized group. Underlying such a bias are the socially reinforced stereotypes and personal beliefs that we develop which we (unconciously) use to evaluate different groups. Such stereotypes can be based on characteristics like gender, cultural background, sexual orientation, dis/ability or race/ethnicity. When such stereotypes are used to assesss and favour one group over another resulting in unequal treatment, chances and outcomes, it is considered to be a bias.

In practice

To become aware of, address and report a bias can be difficult given the subtle and implicit nature of the biases. We can recognize the biases when one’s gender identity, ethnicity, cultural background, health or sexual orientation is used as an explanation or justification for one’s lack of fit for a specific social role. For example, when racialized academics are not hired for a position because “it is not in their culture” to take up such a role. Or when women academics are not considered for leadership positions because women are expected to be “modest” and occupied with care tasks, which does not fit with the stereotypical image of an academic leader who is competitive and research-focused only. It can also take shape of how women structurally receive lower student evaluations because they are assessed on specific aspects that correspond with gender stereotypes, such as personality and educational care, rather than their teaching.