Question

Why do you think it is critical to discuss bias when we talk about identity? Why involve the two? How do they intersect?

Answer 1

Identity is a socially built concept. We get to know about our identity and the identity of others through interactions with them. Everyone holds unconscious beliefs about various social and identity groups, and these biases stem from one's tendency to organize social worlds by categorizing. Therefore, when we talk of identity and try to characterize it, it becomes critical to analyze the bias element of it. They are not separable rather they intersect. The bias and prejudice at the root of sexism, racism, heterosexism and classism run deep, and are not easily fixed. They are part and parcel of our culture and our ideologies. The intersection of bias and identity often manifest in unequal opportunities, rights, or wages, as well as being stereotyped and marginalized. So, we must involve the two to analyze the scenario of discrimation against particular identities and eradicate them completely.