Published: 22 July 2024
The second Annual Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) talk and Q&A The Science of Bias: Wrestling with Assumptions and Intersectionality took place on Monday 10 June at St George's, University of London in the Curve Lecture Theatre.
Professor Pragya Agarwal was welcomed to St George’s by Dr Vanessa Ho, Dean for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Dr Ban Haider, Associate Dean for Culture and Development. Ban reflected on Pragya’s career as a groundbreaking author and distinguished behavioural and data scientist, highlighting her extensive academic and literary work in relation to anti-racism, social justice and unconscious bias.
Feeling uncomfortable
Pragya opened her talk by advising the expectant audience that the event may be uncomfortable and that this is a good place to start when reflecting on biases. She then explained the concept of implicit or unconscious bias - those which affect our behaviour but are outside our awareness. Pragya then outlined how we use two systems of thought, one instinctual and fast which leads to snap decisions often influenced by inherent biases and one more rational and logical.
With the foundation laid, she then delved further into unconscious bias, looking at the many types and how these shape our perceptions, personal interactions and decisions. She then explored intersectionality, privilege and health inequity, touching on gender, race, age and disability.
Challenging biases
Pragya challenged the audience to reflect on their biases and advised that thanks to neuroplasticity, our brains can change and grow at any time. She encouraged them to adopt several strategies including avoiding groupthink, finding or providing a non-judgmental space for discussions, exploring and leveraging their privilege and endeavouring to be an ally for others.
At the end of the talk, the audience were able to ask questions. This was then followed by a reception where attendees enjoyed further discussions about the topic with colleagues, students and alumni.
Resources to support staff and students in this important work, can be found on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion resources page.
Find out more about the Annual Equality, Diversity and Inclusion talks here.
