An action-oriented, scientifically tested guide to confronting and overcoming bias.
Most anti-bias trainings offer empty words rather than effective, practical solutions. In this hopeful and accessible guide, scientist-practitioner William T. L. Cox breaks down the science behind stereotypes, bias, and the habits we form that perpetuate these cognitive traps in daily life. He highlights lessons from his empirically backed anti-bias training and provides actionable tools for preventing bias and speaking out in favor of diversity.
Overcoming Bias Habits inspires us to be agents of change by making meaningful transformations in our behaviors and maintaining them over time. Focusing on individuals and our habits, however, does not mean ignoring the systems and institutions that perpetuate discrimination: Doing the work for ourselves empowers us to also hold institutions accountable and to effect genuine, lasting change in our schools, workplaces, and communities.
William T. L. Cox, PhD, is an award-winning scientist-practitioner with more than twenty years' experience testing bias-reduction methods. He is founder and CEO of the nonprofit Inequity Agents of Change and cohost of the Diverse Joy podcast.
"Presents a uniquely actionable framework for readers who want to confront bias—not with slogans or shame, but with science-backed tools that work."—J. Bradford DeLong, author of Slouching Towards Utopia
"William Cox takes us on a collaborative learning journey, sharing his decades-long research and practice in an approachable format that invites each of us to become change agents to 'detect, reflect, and reject' bias and experience diverse joy. 'Practice makes progress!' Web-based resources add to the learning journey and promote continued growth and sharing."—Harolyn M. E. Belcher, MD, MHS, Johns Hopkins University
"Cox has a rare gift for translating the science of bias and human behavior into ideas that are clear, useful, and relatable. He shines a light on how bias shows up in everyday life, all while staying grounded in what it means to be human."—Lisa Smith, Girl Scouts of the USA
"This book offers us a fresh and practical toolkit for understanding and disrupting bias. Its shame-free approach makes complex concepts accessible, inspiring readers to reflect and act with empathy."—Brian Chaney, Chief of Police, Monona, Wisconsin
240 pp.6 x 9Illus: 5 b/w illustrations, 4 tables, 5 boxes
9780520410428$24.95|£21.00Paper
Mar 2026