Be aware of confirmation bias when collecting information from "summary" of The Art of Thinking Clearly: Better Thinking, Better Decisions by Rolf Dobelli
Confirmation bias is a mental pitfall that we all fall into without even realizing it. It is the tendency to pick information that confirms our existing beliefs while ignoring or dismissing evidence that contradicts them. When we collect information, we often do so in a way that is skewed towards supporting what we already think. This can happen consciously or unconsciously, but the end result is the same – our judgment is clouded by our preconceived notions. This bias can be particularly dangerous because it prevents us from seeing the full picture. We end up missing out on crucial information that could change our minds or lead us to make better decisions. Instead, we become trapped in a cycle of seeking out only the facts that align with what we already believe to be true. To avoid falling victim to confirmation bias, we need to approach information gathering with an open mind. We must be willing to consider all sides of an argument, even if it goes against our own beliefs. This means actively seeking out evidence that contradicts our initial thoughts and being willing to change our minds based on new information. One way to combat confirmation bias is to actively seek out dissenting opinions. By exposing ourselves to viewpoints that challenge our own, we can broaden our perspective and make more informed decisions. It is also important to question our own assumptions and be aware of our emotional attachment to certain beliefs. By approaching information gathering with a critical eye and a willingness to challenge our own thinking, we can begin to overcome the trap of confirmation bias.
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