Cognitive bias
Cognitive bias is a systematic deviation in thinking that affects the evaluation of information, decisions and the interpretation of reality.
Definition
Cognitive errors result from simplifications, heuristics, emotions, limited attention and previous experiences. They help you process information quickly, but can lead to predictable mistakes. Examples include confirmation bias, anchoring, the availability effect, and the halo effect.
Key ideas
- Systematic deviations in thinking
- Heuristics and shortcuts
- Influence on decisions
Practice and life
When making a high-stakes decision, use a decision-making pause: write down data, emotions, assumptions, and alternative explanations. Only then choose an action.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to assume that knowledge of cognitive biases automatically protects against them. Knowledge helps only when it changes the decision-making procedure.
> Not all certainty is evidence; sometimes it is just a shortcut of thinking.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- Which shortcut might work here?
- Do I have data or just a strong impression?
- Who could see this case differently?