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

by Sara Taylor

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.

Genres: Psychology, Leadership, Social Justice, Nonfiction

192 pages, Paperback

Published July 9, 2024

Reviews

[Lisa Kosak · Rating 4 out of 5]

DEI has become more difficult to navigate this year. Too many organizations are changing their level of commitment and proactiveness which presents additional challenges in society. As a manager constantly striving to foster an inclusive and equitable workplace, this book is a great resource for me and my managers. Taylor’s expertise in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion shines through in her practical approach to understanding and shifting our unconscious biases. Bottom line? We are all biased and most of us don’t release it until it is pointed out.

The book is not just theoretical; it’s filled with real-life examples and actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately. Each chapter challenged me to reflect on my own biases and provided clear steps to make meaningful changes in how I lead my team.

What sets this book apart is its direct applicability to the workplace. It’s a must-read for any leader who wants to create a culture where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated. Taylor’s insights have helped me to become a more empathetic and effective manager, and I’m confident they will do the same for any reader committed to personal and professional growth in leadership.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fairness is the opposite of differentiation, which is what is necessary for us to achieve equity.

This is a straightforward, plain language extended tutorial on how to understand and tackle unconscious biases.

Bias is an input while inequities are an outcome.

This was a quick read with a slightly different reframing than other similar texts, using language such as "filters" to communicate what can often be highfalutin technical language from academia.

I can't say I learned anything new, but there were some compelling case studies, such as the dinner table conversation about war at the end.

This is a good one for the unconverted in your life.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berrett-Koehler Publishers for the advance copy.

[Robert Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her book, “Thinking at the Speed of Bias”, Taylor challenges us to ask ourselves three key questions to get at the root of being able to enhance our Individual Effectiveness. One key question which stands out is, “Am I Comfortable?” Are we willing to identify for ourselves the inherent feeling and experience of responding to changing our Filters which have been developed over the years from our experiences. A thought-provoking look at Bias. ~Robert Martinez

[Anastasia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you want practical tools and strategies along with a set of competencies and skills to recognize and stop unconscious bias before it can do harm? If so, then this book is for you.

This book is easy to understand and gives you things to consider in order to stop your biases from taking over. I will reference this book again and again as I continue to grow in this area.

[Carissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars. I read this for a book club through work. It was very informative and I learned a lot I can apply to my personal life and to my work as a social worker. I was not sure how to rate this. I did find a lot of what was written helpful and informative but I was a bit bored with the repetition.

[Aila Kekkonen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book has important information about how to become less biased. Sara Taylor reveals her formulas from a long work experience. You get a detailed explanation on what bias is and also exercises how to battle against bias on individual, group and systems levels. This book is for those who want to create a better workplace culture, community or world, or just want to be be a better version of themselves.

[Eric Kaufman]

"Thinking at the Speed of Bias" is a timely and insightful exploration of unconscious bias, a topic that is both significant and politically sensitive. Drawing from her decades of experience, Sara Taylor provides valuable examples from her consulting work and personal life, making the subject matter relatable and accessible. While not all of the analogies resonated with me, the book's strength lies in its ability to encourage readers to critically engage with the subject. The inclusion of discussion questions for each chapter may be particularly beneficial for readers who want to engage in meaningful small group discussions. Overall, Taylor's book is a fairly easy read that offers practical insight for understanding and addressing unconscious bias, making it a valuable resource for both individuals and organizations.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sara Taylor’s follow up book to Filter Shift is a fantastic deeper dive into unconscious bias. Her real world examples are easy to understand I particularly like that each chapter ends with “Reflection and Action” for the reader to have action items to think about and take with them.

[Judith Saldaña · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent book if you are looking for relatable strategies for unconscious bias. It gets a bit bogged down in the author’s verbiage related to Filters and phases. Overall, a solid contribution to the ever evolving world of DEI work. #SpeedOfBias

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Appreciated the definitions, stories and examples. I hope that applying what I learned will help me move on from level 3.

I really found the chapter on microaggressions helpful.

[Julie Brown]

Great read! Sara does a great job of not only explaining the impact of bias but more importantly how is it developed and very practical tools for challenging our own biases. In addition to her practical tools, I also appreciated the "Discussion Guide" at the back of the book. It helped me further process the content but also provided opportunity to engage with others on various aspects as well. If you are curious to understand bias further (specifically to understand and be accountable for your own behavior and better understand others), this book is a definite must read.

[Daryl J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The more I got into THINKING AT THE SPPED OF BIAS, the more I started to glean the wisdom of Sara Taylor. In a time where DEI initiatives are under attack, this book can provide a useful framework and practical tools to combat bias (implicit and explicit). Using stories, reflective questions, a discussion guide, and other insights, Taylor helps understand what is happening in these biases and how to address them. A good book that comes in a timely manner.

[Crystal Furgerson]

Hey leaders, are you still not finding the leadership technique, style, or understanding you are seeking? Maybe you need to shift your view to yourself. Thinking at The Speed of Bias by Sara Taylor introduces you to the filters everyone has. Those filters make up who you are. It was eye-opening to consider why I do, say or react the way I do. This book will give you tools to consciously change the filter you have and thus change your own bias, making leading unique people a more positive endeavor.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent