Racial disparities exist in how groups perceive police and courts. This article explores why, arguing that vicarious experiences play a key role.

New Insight Needed: Why Perceptions of Justice Vary Across Racial Groups

* We contend racial differences stem from "vicarious bases," drawing on social communication research and negativity bias principles.

* These mechanisms help explain the divide in evaluations of judicial actors.

Our Core Argument: Vicarious Experiences Shape Public Perception

Social network composition influences exposure to others' experiences.*

Negativity biases cause people to interpret vicarious information as more negative than direct experience.*

* This explains the observed disparities in perceptions of police and courts.

Methodology & Findings: Survey Data from Washington State

* We tested four hypotheses using original survey data collected specifically in Washington state.

* Results show vicarious experiences significantly influence citizen ratings of both police and courts.

* These processes widen existing racial gaps in perception, providing clear evidence for their impact.