Perceptual Biases

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that the perceptual biases in the cases of 'Affirmative Action at the University of Selkirk' and 'Portrait of a Canadian Advisor' are different in that the contexts are radically distinct. Further, the writer points out that they are similar in that the perceptual biases in both cases are based heavily upon stereotypes. The writer concludes that in this analysis, one can see how and why the Selkirk and Canadian advisors' cases differ significantly. The writer notes the implications of this for programs to address biases in both contexts.

From the Paper:

"A similar perceptual bias based upon stereotypes can be seen in the case of the Canadian advisors. The difference between the biases in this case and the Selkirk case is largely one of context, with the biases being racially/culturally-based with respect to the Canadian advisors while they are gender-based in the case of Affirmative Action at Selkirk."
"This being said, the interesting thing about the Canadian advisor case is how it is similar to the Selkirk case in being not an obvious or overt stereotyping but a more complex and subtle form of bias. The Canadian advisor case consists of two distinct models of the Canadian advisor: one based upon surveys of the advisors themselves and the other based upon field surveys of advisors from their spouses and colleagues. A key difference between these two models illustrates the perceptual biases that these advisors show towards the host countries in which they work."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Greenberg, Jerald. Managing Behavior in Organizations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice-Hall, 2005.
• Hoffman, Randy, and Ruemper, Fred. Organizational Behaviour: Canadian Cases and Exercises. Toronto: Captus, 2004.

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