Overcoming Cognitive Biases: The Key to Reducing Bigotry and Victimization

Authors

Hershey H. Friedman, Brooklyn College of the City University of New YorkFollow
Svetlana Vlady, Brooklyn College of the City University of New YorkFollow
Ngoc Cindy Pham, Brooklyn College of the City University of New YorkFollow

Publication Date

Spring 2-24-2024

Abstract

People often act irrationally, and one example of this is bigotry. For instance, the statement that “obese people are all lazy and have no willpower” is not supported by facts but by prejudice. We should aim to eradicate all kinds of bias, which are harmful and rooted in irrationality. It is not enough to focus on one type of discrimination and neglect others. The authors posit that cognitive bias is one possible cause of nonsensical beliefs, including prejudice. People who use logic better understand the foolishness of any form of bias. This paper discusses the main cognitive biases that might lead to bigotry and the ways to overcome them.

Recommended Citation

Friedman, Hershey H.; Vlady, Svetlana; and Pham, Ngoc Cindy (2024) "Overcoming Cognitive Biases: The Key to Reducing Bigotry and Victimization," North East Journal of Legal Studies: Vol. 44, Article 5.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.fairfield.edu/nealsb/vol44/iss1/5