James Pollard > Quotes

“Prejudice is everywhere, because people have a natural tendency to generalize and categorize with the purpose of simplifying the world around them. As humans, we have a natural inclination to form mental groups. From this, we form an in-group vs. out-group perspective on the world. I’m white, he’s black.”
― James Pollard, How To Reduce Prejudice: The Psychology Behind Racism and Other Superficial Distinctions

“It’s no longer common to find people using the n-word in public or hanging “No Jews Allowed” signs on their shops. Contemporary racism takes the form of subtle biases rather than traditional overt racism. However, in ambiguous situations, prejudice still occurs. Here’s an example: if presented with two equally matched job candidates with the only difference being skin color, prospective employers are more likely to choose the representative of their in-group. Why?”
― James Pollard, How To Reduce Prejudice: The Psychology Behind Racism and Other Superficial Distinctions

“Still, the psychological mechanisms in every one of us allow aversive racism to occur. American children are taught to have an egalitarian belief system, involving equal rights for all people. At the same time, they are taught the prejudiced traditions that represent American history. These values conflict with one another and lead to inconsistent behavior towards out-group members. Thus, when a white employer sees a white and black job applicant with the same marginal credentials,”
― James Pollard, How To Reduce Prejudice: The Psychology Behind Racism and Other Superficial Distinctions

“Implicit bias has been demonstrated and replicated through numerous studies. One of these studies is a study that showed people two faces: Tony Blair and Barack Obama. Participants were asked the simple question, “Who is more American?” Ostensibly, this is a silly question because Barack Obama is American and Tony Blair is British, but during implicit tests people were quicker and more willing to associate Tony Blair’s face with “American”.”
― James Pollard, How To Reduce Prejudice: The Psychology Behind Racism and Other Superficial Distinctions