Social Biases
Fundamental attribution error
Overexplaining others' behavior by character and underexplaining situation.
What Is Fundamental attribution error?
Fundamental attribution error is a thinking trap where overexplaining others' behavior by character and underexplaining situation.
How It Tricks You
It can turn partial social evidence into a confident judgment about people, motives, or groups.
Real-World Example
A late coworker is called irresponsible before anyone asks about traffic or childcare.
Seen Online As
- They messed up because they are careless.
- That bad decision tells me what kind of person they are.
- I am judging their character before I know their situation.
What To Ask Instead
What situational pressure might explain this?
Related Thinking Traps
Common Situations
Quick FAQ
What is Fundamental attribution error?
Overexplaining others' behavior by character and underexplaining situation.
What is an example of Fundamental attribution error?
A late coworker is called irresponsible before anyone asks about traffic or childcare.
How do I spot Fundamental attribution error?
What situational pressure might explain this?