Whistling Vivaldi

"Whistling Vivaldi" is a book by psychologist Claude Steele that explores how stereotypes about racial and social groups can influence individuals' behavior and performance. It highlights how negative societal expectations, or "stereotype threat," can cause people to underperform when they fear confirming a negative stereotype. Steele discusses research showing that awareness of stereotypes can affect test results, career choices, and confidence, often unconsciously. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding these effects to create environments that support everyone’s potential, challenging assumptions and promoting equity in education, work, and society.