On Intersectionality: How Complex Patterns of Discrimination Can Emerge from Simple Stereotypes

Patterns of discrimination are often complex (i.e., multiplicative), such that different identities combine to yield especially potent discrimination. For example, Black men are disproportionately stopped by police to a degree that cannot be explained by simple (i.e., additive) effects of being Black and being male. Researchers often posit corresponding mental representations (e.g., intersectional stereotypes for Black men) to account for these complex outcomes. We suggest that complex discrimination can be explained by simple stereotypes combined with threshold models of behavior—e.g., “if someone seems higher than X level of threat, stop them.” Simulations provide proof of this concept. We show how gender-by-race discrimination in both promotions and police stops can be explained by simple stereotypes. We also explore race-by-age discrimination in police stops, where racial disparities are greater for young adolescents. This work suggests that complex behaviors can sometimes arise from relatively simple cognitions.