How does confirmation bias affect critical thinking?

Confirmation bias significantly impacts critical thinking by leading individuals to favor information that aligns with their preexisting beliefs while disregarding information that contradicts those beliefs. This mental shortcut can create a distorted perception of reality, as people become more entrenched in their viewpoints and less open to alternative perspectives. When evaluating evidence or arguments, confirmation bias may cause individuals to not only dismiss opposing facts but also to seek out and prioritize information that supports their existing opinions, which can lead to flawed reasoning and conclusions.

In contrast, the other options describe effects that promote critical thinking, such as evaluating all evidence, strengthening analysis, and enhancing objectivity, which are not characteristic outcomes of confirmation bias. Such biases diminish critical thinking abilities by clouding judgment and reducing the willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints.