The human brain uses pattern recognition as a way to learn and help you make decisions — your brain is constantly trying to detect patterns in your environment. However, this pattern recognition process can also lead to broad generalizations and stereotype-confirming thoughts that pass spontaneously through your mind. This unconscious process is called implicit bias. Implicit bias, a term that often surfaces in discussions about social justice, discrimination, and equality, is a concept many of us encounter but may not fully comprehend.