THE NATURALNESS BIAS - How Innate Talent Often Trumps Hard Work
In the pursuit of success, the prevailing narrative often underscores the importance of hard work and determination. Figures across various disciplines, from Thomas Edison to Cristiano Ronaldo, frequently emphasize the value of perseverance. However, recent psychological research sheds light on a phenomenon called the "naturalness bias," revealing that society may inadvertently favor innate talent over diligent effort, particularly in professional contexts.
The naturalness bias, explored by Chia-Jung Tsay, an associate professor at University College London School of Management, suggests that people unconsciously respect individuals with inherent abilities more than those who have put in hard work to achieve success. This bias manifests in various areas, including recruitment, where interviewers may prefer a less qualified candidate perceived to possess natural talent over a more accomplished individual who has demonstrated grit and determination.
Tsay's experiments, initially focused on musical talent perception, revealed that participants consistently rated performers higher when biographical information emphasized innate genius rather than hard work. This bias extends beyond music to entrepreneurial success, where individuals seen as naturals received higher evaluations for their business plans compared to their hardworking counterparts.
Importantly, the naturalness bias emerges early in life, as demonstrated by research involving five-year-old participants who exhibited a preference for those with innate abilities. This bias transcends domains, age groups, and cultures, suggesting a pervasive societal inclination.
The implications of the naturalness bias in decision-making are significant. Participants in Tsay's studies were willing to invest in entrepreneurs with lower intelligence test scores, less leadership experience, and reduced capital simply because they were perceived as having achieved success through natural talent.
Tsay's work intersects with research on mindset, differentiating between a "fixed mindset" and a "growth mindset." While a growth mindset views abilities as malleable and fosters resilience, the naturalness bias suggests that societal preferences may contradict this perspective. The challenge lies in reconciling these biases, especially in professional settings where leaders may unknowingly favor innate talents despite endorsing a growth mindset.
Individuals navigating professional environments influenced by the naturalness bias may need to strike a balance in how they present their achievements. While humility is often valued, acknowledging both the dedication and innate strengths that contributed to success can provide a more nuanced and balanced narrative. This approach may be particularly effective in collaborative settings, where emphasizing teamwork aligns with societal preferences for strivers over perceived divas.
In conclusion, understanding and addressing the naturalness bias is essential for creating fairer and more informed judgments in various professional spheres. By acknowledging the interplay of innate talent and hard work, individuals can navigate biased perceptions and garner the respect they rightfully deserve.
출처 : 스피쿠스
기사 제목: 천재성 편향 - 본능적 재능이 노력을 능가할 때
이 기사는 "천재성 편향"이라는 현상을 다루고 있으며, 사회가 본능적인 재능을 가진 사람들을 노력해서 성공한 사람들보다 더 높게 평가하는 경향이 있다는 것을 밝히고 있습니다. 이 연구는 다양한 분야에서 이러한 편향이 어떻게 나타나는지를 보여주며, 전문적인 환경에서 이러한 편향이 어떤 영향을 미칠 수 있는지를 탐구합니다.
단어 학습:
- Naturalness Bias (천재성 편향): 사람들이 본능적인 능력을 가진 개인을 노력을 통해 성공한 사람들보다 더 존중하는 경향.
- 예문: The naturalness bias in the workplace can lead to overlooked potential in hardworking employees.
- Perseverance (인내심): 어려움을 견디며 목표를 향해 계속 노력하는 성질.
- 예문: Perseverance is key to overcoming challenges and achieving long-term goals.
- Innate Talent (천부적 재능): 타고난 능력이나 소질.
- 예문: His innate talent for music was evident even at a young age.
- Entrepreneurial Success (창업 성공): 비즈니스를 시작하고 성공적으로 운영하는 능력.
- 예문: Entrepreneurial success often requires a combination of innovation, risk-taking, and strategic planning.
- Growth Mindset (성장 마인드셋): 능력이 시간이 지나면서 개발될 수 있다는 신념.
- 예문: Adopting a growth mindset encourages continuous learning and resilience in the face of setbacks.
영어 표현:
- Naturalness Bias (천재성 편향)
- 예문: "In the audition, the judges' naturalness bias was apparent as they favored the contestant with a seemingly effortless talent over those who spoke about their years of training."
- Growth Mindset (성장 마인드셋)
- 예문: "She attributed her success in learning new languages to her growth mindset, believing that with enough practice and dedication, she could master any skill."
