Final answer:
People's perceptions about race and biological traits can lead to stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination, such as racial steering in real estate. Studies show implicit bias can affect reactions, like identifying weapons faster when paired with images of Black individuals. Changing these perceptions is key to achieving a fair and equal society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Perceptions about race and biological traits are social constructs that are heavily influenced by personal biases, prejudices, cultural factors, and stereotypes. For example, individuals may harbor negative stereotypes that Black athletes are inherently more athletic but less intelligent than their White counterparts. This belief negatively affects how these athletes are perceived and treated despite many high-profile examples that contradict this stereotype. Implicit bias towards different races can have serious consequences, such as the more rapid identification of weapons when paired with Black individuals or quicker decisions to shoot an armed target in a video game when the target is Black. Moreover, racial steering in real estate is a manifestation of discriminatory practices based on race, directing prospective homeowners to or away from certain neighborhoods.
Explicit and implicit attitudes impact personal beliefs and actions. While many individuals do not display extreme racial bias in their explicit attitudes due to the social desirability of egalitarian views, implicit attitudes often reveal mild to strong biases. Understanding these concepts is crucial in highlighting the need for change and fostering a society that is fair and equal for all.