However, in the scientific review process, unconscious bias can hamper the aspiration of reaching a fair and objective assessment (e.g., of research applications). Moreover, unconscious bias often contradicts formulated convictions and values.
Unconscious bias has increasingly moved into the light of research and the public sphere in recent years, also due to current research findings. For example, the Nobel prize winner Daniel Kahneman points out that decisions are seldom taken on the basis of purely rational criteria, but are influenced and distorted by an unconscious bias.
Using the information presented below, the FWF wishes to sensitize others and summarize the most important scientific findings in this area. This should sharpen and deepen our awareness of the impact of unconscious bias, including for decision-makers in the context of the assessment of scientific achievements. The process of sensitization and awareness-raising should ensure a fair, scientific assessment in order to prevent any consequences for underrepresented groups.