This Is Your Brain on Stereotypes: How Science Is Tackling Unconscious Bias

An essential overview of the science behind stereotypes: from why our brains form them to how recognising them can help us be less biased. From the time we're babies, our brains constantly sort and label the world around us - a skill that's crucial for our survival. But, as adolescents are all too aware, there's a tremendous downside: when we do this to groups of people it can cause great harm. Here's a comprehensive introduction to the science behind stereotypes that will help young people make sense of why we classify people, and how we can change our thinking. It covers the history of identifying stereotypes, secret biases in our brains, and how stereotypes affect our sense of self. Most importantly, it covers current research into how science can help us overcome our biases, offering hope for a future where stereotypes are less prevalent and the world is more fair for everyone. Written by award-winning author Tanya Lloyd Kyi, this timely and hopeful book addresses the issues of discrimination, racism, sexism, ableism and homophobia and offers concrete suggestions on how to make change. It uses scientific inquiry and loads of relatable and interesting examples to explore these uncomfortable topics in age-appropriate and engaging ways. Chapters, sidebars and colourful illustrations break the text into manageable chunks. Besides the many ways this book could be used to inspire frank and in-depth discussions on the importance of addressing stereotypes and bias, it also links to many science and social studies curriculum topics. Backmatter includes an extensive list of sources, suggestions for further reading and an index. AGES: 11 to 14 AUTHOR: Tanya Lloyd Kyi writes both fiction and nonfiction on topics related to science, pop culture, social history - or a combination of the three. Her recent books include Under Pressure, Prince of Pot, and Mya's Strategy to Save the World. Tanya lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, with her family. Drew Shannon is a Toronto-based illustrator whose clients include the Globe and Mail, the Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBC, NPR and more. He is also the co-creator of the graphic novel series The Montague Twins.