COGNITIVE BIAS Meaning and
Definition
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Cognitive bias refers to a systematic pattern of deviation from rational judgment or decision-making processes, typically influenced by subjective factors rather than objective reality. It is a mental shortcut that our brains use to simplify information processing, allowing for quicker decision-making. However, these biases can often result in inaccurate judgments or irrational behaviors.
Cognitive biases can manifest in various forms, leading to different types of errors in our thinking. Some common cognitive biases include confirmation bias, where individuals seek or interpret information in a way that confirms their preexisting beliefs or hypotheses, and anchoring bias, where individuals rely heavily on the initial piece of information offered when making subsequent judgments.
Other examples of cognitive biases include availability bias, where people rely on readily available examples or information to assess probability or risk, and hindsight bias, where people tend to believe that they could have predicted an event that has already occurred, despite having no objective basis for such a claim.
Cognitive biases are an inherent part of human nature and can be influenced by various factors, such as personal experiences, cultural background, and social influences. While these biases may sometimes serve as useful shortcuts in decision-making, they can also lead to errors and distortions in our thinking. Recognizing and understanding these biases is crucial for critical thinking, decision-making, and avoiding potential pitfalls in judgment.
Etymology of COGNITIVE BIAS
The word "cognitive" comes from the Latin word "cognoscere", which means "to know". It is derived from the prefix "co-" meaning "together" and the verb "gnoscere" meaning "to learn" or "to recognize".
The word "bias" comes from the French word "biais", which means "oblique" or "slant". It originated from the Old Provençal word "bias" meaning "sideways" or "askew".
When the terms "cognitive" and "bias" are combined, they form "cognitive bias". The etymology suggests that cognitive biases refer to mental tendencies or inclinations that cause a deviation from rational judgment or decision-making. These biases are influenced by the way our brains process information, recognize patterns, and form associations.
