The Mirror
Before We Can Tear Down Walls, We Must See Them
Your brain makes thousands of unconscious associations every day. Some of them create invisible walls between you and others. This isn't about guilt. It's about growth.
What is the Implicit Association Test?
The IAT was developed by researchers at Harvard University, the University of Virginia, and the University of Washington.
It measures implicit biases, attitudes and stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner.
The test works by measuring how quickly you associate different concepts. Faster pairings indicate stronger mental associations, regardless of what you consciously believe.
“Discover what your brain does without asking permission.”
Take the Test
The test takes about 10 minutes. Your results are private and immediate. Choose from several different IATs to explore different types of implicit bias.
Go to Harvard IATOpens in a new tab • Free • No account required
Types of Implicit Bias You Can Explore
Race
Associations between racial groups and positive/negative attributes
Gender-Career
Associations between gender and career vs. family roles
Age
Attitudes toward young vs. elderly people
Weight
Associations with thin vs. overweight people
Sexuality
Attitudes toward straight vs. gay/lesbian people
Disability
Associations with abled vs. disabled people
Common Myths About Bias
Understanding what implicit bias is, and isn't, helps us approach it with clarity instead of defensiveness.
"I don't see color / I treat everyone the same"
Research shows implicit biases operate below conscious awareness. Even people committed to equality show bias in IAT results.
"Bias means I'm a bad person"
Implicit biases are learned from culture, not character. They reflect exposure, not intent. Awareness is the first step to change.
"My bias doesn't affect my behavior"
Studies show implicit bias predicts real-world outcomes: hiring decisions, medical treatment, criminal sentencing.
After You Take the Test
Results can be surprising. Here's how to process them constructively.
- 1Reflect without judgment, this is about awareness, not shame
- 2Notice when snap judgments arise in daily life
- 3Seek out diverse perspectives and experiences
- 4Practice counter-stereotypic imaging
- 5Share what you learned with someone you trust
“Awareness is like the sun. When it shines on things, they are transformed.”
Ready to Look in the Mirror?
It takes courage to examine our unconscious minds. But every wall we see is a wall we can choose to lower.