Unpacking Unconscious Bias: Where It Comes From, Why It Matters, and How Diversity Beans Can Help

Unconscious bias is something we all carry. It’s the snap judgments and assumptions our brains make without us even realizing it—often shaped by things like our environment, experiences, and the messages we absorb over time. These biases are part of being human, but they can also hold us back from truly inclusive and equitable communities.

So let’s unpack where unconscious bias comes from, how it affects our lives, and how something as simple (and surprising) as a jellybean can help us challenge it.

Where Does Unconscious Bias Come From?

1. Evolution wired us this way.
Our brains were built for survival, and that meant making quick decisions. Back then, it helped us avoid danger. Today, it sometimes leads to snap judgments in complex situations that deserve more thought.

2. We absorb what’s around us.
From an early age, we pick up cues from family, culture, media, and community. These inputs shape how we see the world—including assumptions about people who are different from us.

3. Our experiences leave a mark.
One powerful experience—good or bad—can influence how we view an entire group. It’s not always logical, but it’s real.

4. Our brains love shortcuts.
Every day, we’re flooded with information. To manage it, our brains use mental shortcuts (called heuristics). Helpful? Sometimes. But they can also oversimplify and reinforce bias.

How Unconscious Bias Shows Up in Everyday Life

At work: It can shape hiring decisions, team dynamics, and who gets heard or promoted.
In schools: It influences how students are treated, what teachers expect, and which opportunities are offered.
In healthcare: It can affect diagnosis, treatment, and how providers engage with patients.
In our relationships: It impacts who we connect with, trust, and include.
In media: It shows up in who gets represented, how stories are told, and what stereotypes are reinforced.

How Diversity Beans Help People Experience Bias Differently

At Diversity Beans, we believe that the first step to changing bias is noticing it. And sometimes, the most powerful way to do that is through experience—not just explanation.

Here’s how our tools help:

1. Spark awareness (without shame): The jellybean twist is a gentle way to reveal how quickly we make assumptions—and how often we get them wrong.

2. Invite curiosity over guilt: Instead of pointing fingers, we open the door to reflection and discussion.

3. Make it safe to explore: Diversity Beans create a low-stakes space for learning and conversation.

4. Get people talking (in a good way): They work great in group settings—from classrooms to boardrooms—and are built for sparking honest, meaningful dialogue.

5. Track real growth: Our resources help individuals and teams reflect, check in, and keep learning over time.

6. Fit your space: With flexible lesson plans, discussion guides, and activities, Diversity Beans can be used in schools, workplaces, workshops, or community events.

Using Diversity Beans to Build More Inclusive Communities

Whether you're a teacher, facilitator, HR leader, or community organizer, Diversity Beans can help your group:

• Develop a shared language for talking about bias and inclusion

• Build empathy by challenging assumptions in real time

• Keep learning through repeat use and follow-up activities

• Celebrate the power of diverse perspectives

• Have honest conversations that bring people closer, not push them apart

Unconscious bias is part of how we’re wired, but it doesn’t have to drive how we lead, connect, or build community. By staying curious and using tools like Diversity Beans, we can shift mindsets, open conversations, and create spaces that are more inclusive, empathetic, and human.

Ready to spark a shift in your school, company, or community? Check out Diversity Beans and take the first step.