Confirmation bias
Confirmation bias is the tendency to seek, remember, and interpret information to support prior beliefs.
Definition
Confirmation bias makes it easier for a person to perceive arguments that are consistent with what they already believe, and ignores or weakens the significance of contradictory data. The mechanism is especially powerful when the topic concerns identity, values, or important decisions. It can perpetuate misconceptions, polarize arguments, and impede learning.
Key ideas
- Selective search for evidence
- Protection of prior beliefs
- Risk of cognitive closure
Practice and life
When making an important decision, deliberately find three strong arguments against your thesis and take them seriously before you decide that you are right.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to think that confirmation bias only affects "irrational" people. It affects everyone, especially when self-image is at stake.
> The mind likes evidence that doesn't make it change its mind.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What information do I avoid because it is inconvenient?
- What could convince me that I'm wrong?
- Am I looking for the truth or just confirmation of my version?