Psychology
What is The fundamental attribution error?
The fundamental attribution error is our tendency to blame other people's behavior on their character, while excusing our own behavior as caused by circumstances. If someone else is late they're 'lazy'; if we're late, 'traffic was terrible'.
See it, don’t just read it.
Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains the fundamental attribution error.
Key things to understand
- 1We blame others' actions on their personality.
- 2We blame our own actions on the situation.
- 3It ignores the powerful role of circumstances.
- 4Awareness fosters empathy and fairer judgments.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the fundamental attribution error?
- The tendency to attribute others' behavior to their character while excusing our own as situational.
- What's an example of the fundamental attribution error?
- Assuming a driver who cuts you off is rude, rather than possibly rushing to an emergency.
- How do you overcome it?
- Pause to consider the situation others might be in, just as you would for yourself.