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What is confirmation bias?

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Quick answer

Confirmation bias is the tendency to seek, favor, and remember information that supports what we already believe — while ignoring evidence that contradicts it. It quietly skews our judgment and makes it hard to change our minds. We favor information that confirms existing beliefs.

Key things to understand

  1. We favor information that confirms existing beliefs.
  2. We tend to ignore or dismiss conflicting evidence.
  3. It makes beliefs feel more certain than they should.
  4. It affects everything from news reading to research.

People also ask

What is confirmation bias?
The tendency to notice and believe information that supports your existing views, while ignoring what contradicts them.
Why is confirmation bias a problem?
It distorts judgment, reinforces false beliefs, and makes it harder to learn or change your mind.
How can you reduce confirmation bias?
Actively seek opposing views, question your assumptions, and look for evidence you might be wrong.