cognitive bias

Meaning

A cognitive bias is a systematic error in thinking that occurs when people are processing and interpreting information in the world around them. It affects the decisions and judgments that they make, often leading to irrational or inaccurate conclusions. This term is frequently used in psychology, behavioral economics, and academic research to explain human error.

Examples

• Confirmation bias is a common cognitive bias where people only look for information that supports their existing beliefs.

  Confirmation bias is a common cognitive bias where people only look for information that supports their existing beliefs.

• The researchers had to design a double-blind study to minimize the influence of cognitive bias.

  The researchers had to design a double-blind study to minimize the influence of cognitive bias.

• Understanding cognitive bias is crucial for policy makers who need to make objective, data-driven decisions.

  Understanding cognitive bias is crucial for policy makers who need to make objective, data-driven decisions.

• Her analysis of the historical event was flawed due to a strong cognitive bias toward her own country's perspective.

  Her analysis of the historical event was flawed due to a strong cognitive bias toward her own country's perspective.

• Awareness of cognitive bias can help investors avoid making impulsive decisions during market fluctuations.

  Awareness of cognitive bias can help investors avoid making impulsive decisions during market fluctuations.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ He has a cognitive bias against spicy food.

  ✓ He has a strong dislike of spicy food.

  'Cognitive bias' refers to systematic errors in thinking and processing information, not personal preferences, tastes, or simple prejudices.

• ✗ The computer program showed a cognitive bias.

  ✓ The computer program showed algorithmic bias.

  'Cognitive' relates to human mental processes. Computers or algorithms cannot have 'cognitive' biases, though they can have algorithmic or systematic biases.

Related Expressions

Practice

• When analyzing the data, we must remain aware of our own ___ to avoid skewed results.

  💡 A systematic error in thinking.

  Show answer

  cognitive bias

• The study of ___ helps psychologists understand why people make irrational financial decisions.

  💡 Systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment.

  Show answer

  cognitive bias