How Hanumankind's 'Big Dawgs' Revealed A Hidden Bias That We All Hold

You can't make assumptions based on others' appearances. Here's how Hanumankind, an Indian rapper, accidentally taught this to us.

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | September 06, 2024

If you've been on social media lately, you might have caught wind of Hanumankind's viral new song "Big Dawgs." Listeners all over the world love its fantastic beat, hard-hitting lyrics and visually stunning music video. However, many were surprised to learn that Hanumankind is Indian.

Having grown up in Houston before returning to India, his sound naturally reflects U.S. influences. However, the surprise at his origins could hint at unconscious biases lurking within people's perceptions.

Unconscious or implicit bias refers to attitudes or stereotypes that unconsciously affect our understanding, actions and decisions. These biases are automatic and operate without our awareness, often in ways that contradict our conscious values.

Unconscious biases stem from our natural inclination to categorize information quickly and efficiently. This process involves the brain relying on mental shortcuts developed through experience and societal conditioning. These shortcuts help the brain make rapid decisions, but can lead to biased judgments.

For instance, unconscious bias can stop you from fully participating in and appreciating new experiences. You might avoid eating at certain restaurants because you believe the food will be bad due to the cuisine or appearance, or in the case of Hanumankind, you might preemptively dismiss his music because you assume it's not your style, before giving it a real chance.

Here are two ways to avoid the trap of unconscious bias.

1. Expand Your Social Circle

Changing your perception of others is hard when everyone in your social circle mimics your thoughts and beliefs. To avoid living in an echo chamber, you must surround yourself with varying perspectives. Making an effort to interact with a diverse group of people can help broaden your worldview.

Research shows that engaging in "perspective-taking" or considering a situation or experience from another person's point of view can reduce implicit bias. This practice requires empathy and an open mind, as it challenges individuals to see beyond their own experiences and assumptions. Meeting and listening to new people gives you the chance to do just that.

"I'm a white girl and a lot of my girl friends are black. It's made me very aware of how real white privilege is," one Reddit user explains, emphasizing the importance of a diverse social circle.

2. Embrace Curiosity

Another way to counteract unconscious bias is to approach situations with curiosity instead of relying on your assumptions. When you encounter something unexpected, like discovering that an artist doesn't fit your mental image of their background, lean into the opportunity to learn more.

Ask yourself: Why does this surprise me? What can I learn from this? By staying open and curious, you give yourself the chance to appreciate new experiences without the filter of bias.

A 2021 study published in the Journal of Graduate Medical Education found that self-reflection effectively increased participants' awareness and knowledge of implicit biases. Researchers found that first impressions based on appearance, ethnicity and stereotypes often led to inaccurate assumptions.

"For a White male physician covered in tattoos, only 2% correctly identified him as a physician, and 60% felt he was untrustworthy. For a smiling Black female astronaut, only 13% correctly identified her as an astronaut. For a brooding White male serial killer, 50% found him trustworthy," the researchers write, highlighting shocking disparities in stereotypes and reality.

It's essential to consciously challenge stereotypes when they arise. If you catch yourself making a snap judgment about someone based on their appearance, accent or background, pause and remind yourself that people are complex and multidimensional.

Just because someone doesn't fit the mold you're used to doesn't mean they aren't incredibly talented or capable. Hanumankind's success is a reminder that talent transcends borders and by being aware of our biases, we can appreciate the diversity that makes art—and life—so rich.

Wondering how tolerant you are of others' differences? Take this test to find out: Warm Tolerance Scale

A similar version of this article can also be found on Forbes.com, here.