In this insightful and engaging keynote, Dr. Steve Robbins will examine the domain of diversity and inclusion from the frameworks of human behavior and cognitive neuroscience. He will make the case that diversity (i.e., human differences) is really not the problem. Rather, the real issue is closed-mindedness, or the hardwired bias to be cautious and skeptical about people, places and things with which we are unfamiliar.
Drawing on the fields of cognitive neuroscience, socio-psychology and communication (among others), Dr. Robbins will explore with you the human need to be recognized, valued and included – and what happens when that need is not met. He will demonstrate how our brain views the world from an “insider vs. outsider” lens and how that can lead to the exclusion of others (and their ideas). He will examine the concept of “noise,” and how noisy mental models can lead to unintentional intolerance and reduced productivity, and have a negative impact on creativity and innovation.
Dr. Robbins ultimately will make the case for “open-mindedness,” and describe how open-mindedness (the cognitive ability to entertain multiple perspectives) is key for inclusion AND innovation. He will also show how you can become more open-minded, and explain how an open-minded and mindful approach to life, whether at work or home, can pay huge dividends as you navigate a complex world filled with different perspectives, values and beliefs. And as always, Dr. Robbins will deliver all this science-based content neatly packaged with real-world relevance, a good dose of storytelling and laugh-out-loud humor.
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Steve L. Robbins, Ph.D.
Chief “What If” Officer
S.L. Robbins & Associates
Connect Online with this Speaker
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A powerful storyteller with a powerful story to tell, Dr. Steve L. Robbins has an uncanny ability to inspire people even in the midst of disrupting and challenging the way they think about the world. Born in Vietnam, Dr. Robbins immigrated with his mother to the United States where they faced many challenges during a time when there was much anti-war and anti-Vietnamese sentiment.
Working through and rising out of the challenges of poverty, discrimination and the tough streets of Los Angeles, Dr. Robbins now brings insightful perspectives on issues of inclusion & innovation, leadership, and the power of caring. Drawing upon a compelling life journey, his talks and workshops are filled with intriguing stories, laugh-out-loud humor and a keen understanding of human behavior.
Dr. Robbins uniquely knows how to simultaneously challenge and motivate people with a dynamic use of storytelling, humor and extensive knowledge of pertinent issues and concepts. The inclusive power of his message are why organizations like Coca-Cola, Disney, Ford Motor Company, Walmart, Lululemon, Pixar, NASA, The NBA, Michelin, Bank of America, Mercedes-Benz, and numerous others call on Dr. Robbins to inspire, educate and prepare their people for the exciting challenges of dynamic and diverse environments.
A thought leader and innovator, Dr. Robbins' unique, science-based approach to inclusion and diversity has captured wide acclaim from numerous audiences and organizations across the the world. His approach does NOT blame or point fingers. It uses neuroscience and the science of human behavior to encourage individuals and organizations to be more open-minded, mindful and intentional about inclusion and valuing people for their unique gifts, abilities and experiences.
Dr. Robbins earned an undergraduate degree in Communication from Calvin College, and his masters and doctorate in Communication Science from Michigan State University. His background in communication, social-psychology and cognitive neuroscience drives his work with individuals and organizations – the core of the work is about understanding human behavior and leveraging human differences in an ever-changing, fast-paced 21st world.