The French dislike English speakers. All politicians are corrupt. Children should be vaccinated. Apple makes the best computers. Music helps you concentrate. Donald Trump is a great president. Global warming is real. Men are better drivers than women.
These are examples of opinions some people have.
While some may be proven or disproven by science, once we have an opinion on something we will consciously and subconsciously search for information, interpret data and remember the news that supports them. We’ll discount and ignore conflicting views even if they are correct.
Like it or not, believe it or not, we are not open-minded.
Confirmation bias is the act of seeking out information that confirms our existing opinions and disregarding information that doesn’t support it.
It applies to “big” issues like Trumpian politics, flat earth theorists and fake news. Confirmation bias is also common for all of us in small day-to-day beliefs at home or in the office.
Our major client is happy. The team is motivated. Our product is better than our competitors. My partners are trying to rid of me. My wife is fulfilled.
Perhaps, you may want to look at these beliefs and the evidence you’re using to support them.
Try to prove yourself wrong and maybe you’ll find that you are.