Does racial and gender bias shape perception: examining how other’s pro-environmental behaviors are viewed

Abstract

ABSTRACT The current work explores how individuals perceive others’ pro-environmental behaviors. Actions do not occur in isolation but within societal structures that provide schemas shaping interpretations of the perceived behaviors. This research utilizes the theoretical framework of Pierre Bourdieu with an emphasis on symbolic capital, power, and violence as to why perceptions may differ. Differences in perception can reflect societal views on sex, race, or any other socially important characteristic. Using a novel survey design, a national sample of United States respondents (n = 1,218) randomly rated 32 pro-environmental behavior vignettes-actor pairings. Through the comparison of means and multivariate regression analyses, significant differences regarding the level of perceived concern emerge. Findings highlight that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, along with women pro-environmental actors, are perceived to display lower levels of environmental concern through their actions. Additionally, being white or a man tends to enhance the reported level of concern demonstrated. Comparable environmental behaviors should be rated similarly. However, those possessing specific symbolic capital (e.g. race or gender) may be viewed in higher esteem by most, if not all, regarding their level of concern. Ultimately, this can lead to benefits for some and further marginalization for others.