CONFIRMATION BIAS Meaning and
Definition
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Confirmation bias is a cognitive tendency or mental inclination to seek, interpret, and remember information or evidence in a way that confirms one's preexisting beliefs, expectations, or hypotheses, while disregarding or downplaying contradictory or disconfirming evidence. It is a common human tendency in the process of perception, reasoning, and decision-making, which can lead to distorted thinking or judgments.
When individuals exhibit confirmation bias, they preferentially notice, remember, and interpret information that aligns with their existing beliefs, while unconsciously filtering out information that challenges or contradicts them. It results in the reinforcement or strengthening of one's initial convictions, without critically examining alternative viewpoints or considering the potential flaws in one's own assumptions.
Confirmation bias can manifest in different contexts, including politics, health, relationships, and personal preferences. It can influence how individuals form attitudes, make decisions, and engage in debates or discussions, potentially leading to the polarization of opinions and hindered progress. This bias can affect perceptions at an individual level, as well as collective decision-making processes at a societal level.
Overcoming confirmation bias involves cultivating self-awareness, actively seeking diverse and contrasting information, questioning assumptions, and maintaining an open mind to consider alternative perspectives. Critical thinking skills and embracing skepticism can aid in mitigating the impacts of confirmation bias, allowing individuals to make more accurate and objective judgments.
Etymology of CONFIRMATION BIAS
The word "confirmation bias" is a compound term made up of "confirmation" and "bias".
The term "confirmation" comes from the Latin word "confirmatio", which means "strengthening" or "establishing". It is derived from the verb "confirmare", which combines "con-" (thoroughly) and "firmare" (to strengthen or make firm).
The term "bias" originates from the Middle French word "biais", meaning "slant" or "slope". It is possibly derived from the Old Provençal word "biais", with a similar meaning. The origin of this Provençal term is uncertain.
When combined, "confirmation bias" refers to the psychological tendency of selectively interpreting or favoring information that validates or supports one's pre-existing beliefs or expectations while ignoring or downplaying contradicting information.
