Which statement about unconscious bias is true?

• A. It is present in everyone to some extent
• B. It can be eliminated completely with training
• C. It never influences judgments
• D. It is only a concern in non-professional settings

Answer: (A)

Unconscious bias operates automatically, shaped by our experiences, culture, and environment, and can influence our judgments without us realizing it. Because human thinking relies on quick mental shortcuts, everyone carries some level of these biases. While training and reflection can reduce their impact, they cannot be erased entirely. These biases can still color decisions even when people intend to be fair, which is why they matter in professional settings like valuations and housing. It’s not something restricted to non-professional contexts; recognizing that bias exists in everyone helps explain why using standardized criteria and ongoing checks is important to protect against unfair outcomes.