What does cognitive bias refer to?

Cognitive bias refers to systematic patterns of deviation from rational judgment. This concept highlights how individuals often make decisions and judgments that are not based on objective reality but are instead influenced by subjective factors such as personal experiences, beliefs, emotions, and social pressures. These biases can lead to errors in reasoning and decision-making, undermining the ability to process information logically.

For example, confirmation bias—a common cognitive bias—occurs when individuals favor information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs, skewing their interpretation and evaluation of information. Understanding cognitive biases is crucial in the field of psychology, as it helps explain why people often act in ways that are inconsistent with rational thought and how these biases can affect behavior and mental processes.