The internet can amplify cognitive biases from "summary" of The Internet of Us: Knowing More and Understanding Less in the Age of Big Data by Michael P. Lynch

In our digital age, the internet has become a powerful tool for accessing information and connecting with others. However, this vast landscape of knowledge can also have a downside - it can amplify cognitive biases. These biases are the mental shortcuts our brains use to make sense of the world, but they can lead us astray when we rely too heavily on them. The internet can exacerbate this problem by presenting us with a plethora of information that confirms our preexisting beliefs and biases. When we are constantly exposed to ideas that align with what we already think, our cognitive biases are reinforced and strengthened. This can create an echo chamber effect, where we only hear opinions that mirror our own, further entrenching our biases. Moreover, the way information is presented online can also contribute to the amplification of cognitive biases. Algorithms and personalized recommendations show us content that is tailored to our preferences, creating a filter bubble that shields us from diverse perspectives. This can narrow our worldview and limit our exposure to differing opinions, making it even more challenging to challenge our biases. As a result, the internet can hinder our ability to think critically and objectively. We may become more closed-minded and resistant to new ideas, as our cognitive biases are constantly being validated and reinforced. In the end, this can lead to a lack of understanding and empathy towards others, as we become more entrenched in our own beliefs and less open to alternative viewpoints.

The Internet of Us: Knowing More and Understanding Less in the Age of Big Data

Michael P. Lynch

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