Probability and Statistical Biases
Confirmation bias
Data is interpreted to support an existing belief.
What Is Confirmation bias?
Confirmation bias is a thinking trap where data is interpreted to support an existing belief.
How It Tricks You
It can make noisy, incomplete, or poorly framed data feel more meaningful than it is.
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 analysis would challenge the belief?
Related Thinking Traps
Common Situations
Quick FAQ
What is Confirmation bias?
Data is interpreted to support an existing belief.
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 analysis would challenge the belief?