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Questions and Answers
What is a cognitive bias?
A systematic pattern of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment.
Cognitive biases always lead to negative outcomes.
False
Who introduced the notion of cognitive biases?
Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman.
Which heuristic is defined as the tendency to judge the likelihood of an occurrence based on how much it resembles the typical case?
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The 'Linda Problem' illustrates the ______ heuristic.
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The conjunction fallacy occurs when a more restrictive condition seems more representative.
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What are heuristics in the context of cognitive biases?
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Which of the following best describes attentional biases?
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Study Notes
Cognitive Bias Overview
- Cognitive bias refers to consistent deviations from rational judgment and norms in decision-making processes.
- Individuals develop a "subjective reality" based on personal perceptions rather than objective input.
Impact on Behavior and Judgment
- Cognitive biases can lead to perceptual distortions, inaccurate judgments, and illogical interpretations.
- Some cognitive biases are adaptive, allowing for quicker decision-making in contexts where speed is prioritized over accuracy.
Origins and Research
- Introduced by Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman in 1972, arising from observations of people's difficulties with numerical reasoning.
- Research covers six decades in various fields, including cognitive science, social psychology, and behavioral economics.
- Cognitive biases can lead to the endorsement of pseudoscientific beliefs due to reduced evidence required for confirmation.
Heuristics
- Heuristics are mental shortcuts allowing for rapid estimates but can produce significant systematic errors.
- Representativeness heuristic: judgment based on how much an event resembles a typical case.
Example: The "Linda Problem"
- Participants assessed whether Linda, described as socially conscious, is more likely a "bank teller" or "bank teller and active in the feminist movement."
- Majority chose the latter, illustrating the conjunction fallacy as it is statistically less probable.
Alternative Perspectives
- Critics argue heuristics represent rational adaptive tools rather than irrational cognitive biases.
- Notable critics include Gerd Gigerenzer, who emphasized rethinking rationality.
Types and Dimensions of Biases
- Cognitive biases can be categorized into different types based on their characteristics and effects.
- Distinction exists between "hot cognition" (motivated reasoning linked to emotions) and "cold cognition" (objective reasoning).
Self-Directed and Group Biases
- Some biases arise from the desire for self-affirmation (self-serving bias, illusion of asymmetric insight).
- In-group bias leads to favorable evaluations of one’s group, while out-group homogeneity bias perceives other groups as more uniform.
Applications and Implications
- The study of cognitive biases influences various domains such as clinical judgment, finance, management, and entrepreneurship.
- Heuristics and biases research has expanded into disciplines beyond psychology, including medicine and political science.
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Description
Explore the fascinating world of cognitive biases, their origins, and their effects on judgment and behavior. This quiz delves into research findings from cognitive science and psychology, highlighting how biases can distort our perceptions and lead to different decision-making processes. Test your understanding of heuristics and the implications of cognitive biases in various contexts.
