Why might someone experience confirmation bias during an argument?

Why might someone experience confirmation bias during an argument?

• A. They seek to understand all perspectives
• B. They only consider facts that oppose their viewpoint
• C. They favor information that supports their existing beliefs
• D. They are indifferent to the outcome of the argument

Answer: (C)

Confirmation bias is a cognitive phenomenon where individuals tend to favor information that aligns with their preexisting beliefs and values while disregarding or minimizing evidence that contradicts those viewpoints. This tendency can manifest strongly during arguments, as individuals may selectively interpret or focus on facts, examples, and opinions that reinforce what they already think or feel about a subject. When someone is engaged in an argument and possesses a strong belief about a particular issue, they are likely to look for supporting evidence that validates their stance. This selective gathering of information helps maintain their beliefs and often leads to an entrenched position in discussions. Thus, favoring information that supports existing beliefs is a central characteristic of confirmation bias and explains why it might hinder open-mindedness and critical thinking during disagreements. In contrast to this correct understanding, the other choices describe behaviors that do not align with confirmation bias: seeking to understand all perspectives promotes open-mindedness; considering only opposing facts reflects a narrow viewpoint that isn't characteristic of confirmation bias; and being indifferent to the outcome suggests a lack of engagement or investment in either side of the argument, which does not foster biased thinking.

Confirmation bias is a cognitive phenomenon where individuals tend to favor information that aligns with their preexisting beliefs and values while disregarding or minimizing evidence that contradicts those viewpoints. This tendency can manifest strongly during arguments, as individuals may selectively interpret or focus on facts, examples, and opinions that reinforce what they already think or feel about a subject.

When someone is engaged in an argument and possesses a strong belief about a particular issue, they are likely to look for supporting evidence that validates their stance. This selective gathering of information helps maintain their beliefs and often leads to an entrenched position in discussions. Thus, favoring information that supports existing beliefs is a central characteristic of confirmation bias and explains why it might hinder open-mindedness and critical thinking during disagreements.

In contrast to this correct understanding, the other choices describe behaviors that do not align with confirmation bias: seeking to understand all perspectives promotes open-mindedness; considering only opposing facts reflects a narrow viewpoint that isn't characteristic of confirmation bias; and being indifferent to the outcome suggests a lack of engagement or investment in either side of the argument, which does not foster biased thinking.