Confirmation Bias: Why We See What We Want to See

In a remote Alaskan wilderness, a priest and an atheist debate the existence of God. The atheist recounts a blizzard experience where he prayed for help but was saved by Eskimos, not divine intervention. This story introduces confirmation bias, a tendency to interpret information in ways that confirm pre-existing beliefs. The video explores how biases are culturally and generationally transmitted, affecting our perceptions and decisions. It encourages viewers to slow down and reflect on their biases, highlighting the importance of awareness in understanding complex issues. The video concludes with a task to identify a rule in a number sequence, illustrating how biases influence problem-solving.

What was the atheist's explanation for his survival in the blizzard?

• He believed God saved him.

• He was rescued by Eskimos.

• He found his way back on his own.

• He never got lost.

What is confirmation bias?

• A tendency to change beliefs frequently.

• A tendency to ignore all information.

• A tendency to interpret information in a way that confirms one's beliefs.

• A tendency to seek out new information.

How is confirmation bias often passed down?

• Through educational institutions.

• Through cultural and family narratives.

• Through scientific research.

• Through random chance.

What did Peter Cathcart Wason contribute to the study of biases?

• He invented the scientific method.

• He developed the theory of relativity.

• He discovered the placebo effect.

• He coined the term 'confirmation bias'.

According to Daniel Kahneman, what can frequent repetition lead to?

• Increased intelligence.

• Belief in falsehoods.

• Improved communication skills.

• Better memory.