Confirmation bias is a cognitive bias where we selectively pay attention to information that confirms our preconceptions or hypotheses while ignoring or discounting information that does not support them. This can lead us to draw incorrect conclusions about the world around us.
Confirmation bias is often seen in the way that people process information. For example, we are more likely to remember information confirming our beliefs while forgetting information contradicting them. We are also more likely to believe the information we have seen or heard multiple times than we have only seen or heard once.
Confirmation bias can have a significant impact on our lives. This can lead us to make decisions based on incomplete or biased information. For example, we may overestimate the effects of our actions or underestimate the effects of others’ actions based on the information we have seen.
Confirmation bias can be difficult to avoid, but it can be helpful to be aware of it. For example, keeping a journal to record all the information you encounter can be helpful. This will help you to remain open to new information and to avoid basing your decisions on incomplete or biased information.
