The Psychology of Social Bias

Explore social bias from a psychological perspective

Welcome to this introduction to the University of Aberdeen’s 16‑week course, The Psychology of Social Bias, which runs twice a year in September and January. Should you wish to continue to the full course, you can enjoy 10% off your registration using the code FutureLearn26.

Neural Architecture and Social Bias

This course will explore the biological foundations of human interaction, examining why we are naturally predisposed to prejudice.

By investigating the structural brain processes that influence social bias, you will discover how the ‘social animal’ evolved to categorise the world.

Cognitive Mechanics and Behavioural Outcomes

Building on neurological foundations, this course will explore the manifestations of bias in society. You will study diverse forms of cognitive distortion from both biological and sociological perspectives.

To provide essential real-world context, the course also covers the legalities surrounding discriminatory behaviour in the UK.

Automatic versus Controlled Processing

Finally, this course will explore dual-process theory, demonstrating the tension between automatic and controlled mental systems. You will learn how the brain balances rapid, subconscious reactions with deliberate rational thought when navigating complex social landscapes.

A key focus is placed on social priming: the subtle environmental cues that subconsciously influence our decisions and movements through social systems. By understanding these dual systems, you will develop the capacity to recognise when the brain operates on autopilot, and learn to apply conscious control to mitigate the impact of implicit bias.

This course is ideal for psychology students, HR professionals, and legal practitioners in the UK. It will suit anyone seeking to understand the neuroscience of prejudice, implicit bias, and the ethical or legal frameworks governing social systems and behaviour.

This course is ideal for psychology students, HR professionals, and legal practitioners in the UK. It will suit anyone seeking to understand the neuroscience of prejudice, implicit bias, and the ethical or legal frameworks governing social systems and behaviour.

• Identify key brain structures involved in social bias.
• Discuss different forms of cognitive and social discrimination.
• Explore the primary UK legalities regarding biased behaviour.
• Explain automatic and controlled mental processes.
• Describe social priming and its role in social systems.