Ever argued with someone who just refused to see the facts? Maybe they ignored solid evidence or twisted information to fit their viewpoint. Frustrating, right? Here’s the uncomfortable truth: we all do it.
It’s called confirmation bias, and it’s the reason we tend to believe what we already believe—no matter what the facts say.
Simply put, confirmation bias is our tendency to seek out, interpret, and remember information in a way that supports what we already think is true. We ignore or dismiss anything that contradicts our beliefs.
Examples of confirmation bias in action:
It’s not just about being stubborn. It’s how our brains are wired.
Thinking critically takes effort. It’s easier to accept what fits our current worldview than to challenge our own beliefs.
We want to belong. Changing our minds might mean going against our social group, family, or community, which feels uncomfortable—even dangerous.
Admitting we’re wrong can be unsettling. Confirmation bias protects our ego by filtering out inconvenient truths.
Algorithms feed us content we already agree with, reinforcing our beliefs. If you Google “Are vaccines dangerous?” you’ll get very different results than if you search “Are vaccines safe?”
This bias isn’t just a personal quirk—it shapes everything from public opinion to global events.
A famous example? The 2008 financial crisis. Many experts saw warning signs, but decision-makers ignored them because they didn’t fit the “everything is fine” narrative.
Want to think more critically? Try these:
Read, watch, or listen to sources you disagree with. Challenge yourself to understand their arguments without immediately rejecting them.
If nothing could change your mind, you’re probably not thinking critically. A strong belief should be able to withstand scrutiny.
Before sharing something, verify it with reputable sources—even if it supports your viewpoint.
Instead of debating to “win,” aim to learn. Ask, Why do you believe that? What evidence would change your mind?
Real growth happens when we challenge ourselves. It’s okay to be wrong—it means you’re learning.
Confirmation bias isn’t just a problem other people have. It’s something we all do, every day. The question is: Will you let it control your thinking, or will you challenge yourself to see the bigger picture?
Next time you read a headline or hear a claim, ask yourself: Do I believe this because it’s true—or because I want it to be true?