149 — Unlearning Bias and Giving Up the Myths You’ve Believed About Yourself and Other People With Scientist Anu Gupta

We all have hidden biases that shape our perceptions and interactions. And we often have biases about ourselves. Fortunately, we can unlearn our biases once we’re aware of them.
 
Anu Gupta is an educator, lawyer, scientist, and the CEO of Be More. He delivered a popular TED talk and wrote a book called Breaking Bias.
 
Some of the things we discuss are:
 

• How biases can be unlearned through conscious effort and practices
• The 5 causes of bias
• The PRISM method and how this science-backed framework can break biases
• The impact of self-bias and how addressing it can help you grow mentally stronger
• The role media plays in bias
• The steps that an help you let go of biases

Key Takeaways:

• Bias as Learned Behavior: Anu Gupta explains that biases are not inherent but learned habits that can be unlearned through conscious effort and practices.
• Five Causes of Bias: Biases are embedded in stories, policies, social contact, education, and media, all of which shape our perceptions and behaviors.
• PRISM Method: Anu introduces PRISM, a science-backed framework for breaking biases featuring practices like mindfulness, stereotype replacement, individuation, and perspective-taking.
• Self-Bias Impact: Biases impact how we view ourselves, often limiting potential and creating psychological suffering. Addressing self-bias is crucial for personal growth and mental strength.
• Role of Media: Media plays a significant role in reinforcing stereotypes and biases, influencing our beliefs subtly and overtly. Mindful media consumption is essential for breaking this cycle.