Decision-Making Biases
Confirmation bias
Seeking or favoring information that supports what you already believe.
What Is Confirmation bias?
Confirmation bias is a thinking trap where seeking or favoring information that supports what you already believe.
How It Tricks You
It can make one option feel obvious before the tradeoffs have been checked.
Real-World Example
Someone searches only for reviews that defend the phone they already want.
Seen Online As
- This proves what I have been saying all along.
- I knew I was right as soon as I saw this headline.
- Every source against my view seems biased.
What To Ask Instead
What evidence would change my mind?
Related Thinking Traps
Common Situations
Quick FAQ
What is Confirmation bias?
Seeking or favoring information that supports what you already believe.
What is an example of Confirmation bias?
Someone searches only for reviews that defend the phone they already want.
How do I spot Confirmation bias?
What evidence would change my mind?