Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias is a type of cognitive bias, or an error in thinking. Processing all the facts available to us costs us time and energy, so our brains tend to pick the information that agrees most with our preexisting opinions and knowledge. This leads to faster decision-making.

How to avoid confirmation bias?

Although confirmation bias cannot be entirely eliminated, there are steps you can take to avoid it:

• Be aware and accept that it is a problem
• Be curious, ask for details. Truly listen to what others have observed
• Use neutral and reliable sources
• Challenge yourself, try to discover your customary preconceptions

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