In this Hidden Brain podcast episode on implicit bias, social psychologist Mahzarin Banaji talks about how implicit bias is influenced by and reflective of the society that an individual lives in. One of the profound statements she makes is about the correlation between helping and inequality.

But how can lending a helping hand to someone increase inequality? Because of who we most often do that for. When a friend is looking for a job opportunity, we are more likely to refer them. We will give a commendation letter for a relative’s son or daughter. This leads to more opportunities within the same community, widening the gap between the affluent and marginalised groups.

According to Mahzarin, this is where the institution needs to play an important role. At the individual level, this form of symbiotic bonds will only exist within the same sections of society. But an organisation can step in and balance the scales by creating a process or program to extend opportunities to people from minority communities. Take deliberate steps to reduce the gap. It is the only way this chasm will ever begin closing.