Confirmation bias (CB) is a common cognitive bias that refers to our tendency to seek out and interpret information that confirms our existing beliefs and biases. While it's natural to want to hold onto your beliefs and ideas, confirmation bias can lead to distorted thinking and make it difficult to consider alternative viewpoints, key word alternative to our yown or your chosen faved authority on said subject.
One of the challenges of CB is that it can cause us to overlook or discount evidence that contradicts our beliefs. This can lead to a distorted view of reality and make it difficult to make informed decisions. For example, you opted to participate in a new drug trial and opted to assume no other information was useful or credible. It’s also note worthy to say – I will release a blog on cognitive dissonance which dances rather well with CB.
Another challenge of CB is that it can contribute to the polarization of society. When we surround ourselves with people who share our beliefs and viewpoints, it's easy to fall into an echo chamber where we are only exposed to information that confirms our beliefs. This can lead to a lack of understanding and empathy for others who hold different beliefs, and can ultimately contribute to conflicts and divisions within society. . . no recent events need be named.
Overcoming CB can be difficult, but it's an important step towards a more open-minded and nuanced thinking. One way to do this is to actively seek out and consider evidence and viewpoints that challenge your beliefs. It's also important to be aware of our yown biases and try to approach new information with an open mind. By acknowledging and addressing CB, everyone can make more informed decisions and have a more balanced and accurate view of the world. Frankly if nothing less, it could create a ripple effect. If you want to preach or argue a subject, educate yourself in both directions. As a collective the result ripple could be a shared societal ability to reengage in difficult conversations, respectfully, empathically and usefully.
Love ya’ll
Stay Brazen