Why Are We Yelling?: The Art of Productive Disagreement

by Buster Benson

Develop honest bias If you take nothing else away from this chapter, take these four steps on the path toward developing honest bias. STEP 1: Opt-in. Developing honest bias requires us first and foremost to wake up to our own blindness and to stop trying to pretend it doesn’t exist. Only you can decide if you’re up for the challenge of taking it on. Step 2: Observe (beginner level). Take steps to reduce the amount of time and energy you spend trying to hide or ignore your biases and blind spots. For example, read up on information in this chapter to get familiar with the variety of biases. Notice when your defenses are triggered and check whether (a) you’re really in danger right now, or (b) there’s an opportunity to learn from a new perspective (even in a small way). Step 3: Repair (intermediate level). Take steps to reduce the time and energy it takes for you to identify and begin to repair inadvertent damage caused by your biases and blind spots. For example, when you notice a blind spot, look into it and identify people and ideas that may have been undervalued or harmed by you and others. Look for ways to reverse that trend and repair damage. STEP 4: Normalize (advanced level). Take steps to reduce the time and energy others have to spend challenging your blind spots and recruiting you to address the damage that you’ve contributed to. For example, actively seek out information and perspectives that challenge your own. Invite the best representatives of positions you do...