by Melinda Clayton

Created on: November 02, 2009   Last Updated: December 10, 2009

Confirmation bias concept refers to the tendency to seek out, conceptualize, and remember information according to ones own beliefs. Also sometimes referred to as positive stress strategy, this type of bias occurs when we only select or remember information that supports what we already hope or believe to be true.

Although the term was coined by Peter Watson in 1960, the concept of confirmation bias was recognized far earlier. As early as the 17th century scholar and philosopher Francis Bacon recognized that "The human understanding when it has once adopted an opinion . . . draws all things else to support and agree with it."

The occurrence of confirmation bias is particularly strong when an individual is seeking information about a subject to which he is emotionally tied. This type of selective thinking can be damaging. For example, an individual seeking alternative treatment for cancer may only focus on the positive side effects of the treatment while ignoring simultaneous warning signs that the disease has spread.

A natural tendency, confirmation bias often occurs sub-consciously, without the individual even realizing the bias. Some scientists theorize that confirmation bias may have enhanced the ability of prehistoric humans to adapt to and survive in their surroundings. By relying on a more emotional method for making decisions, prehistoric humans may have been able to react more quickly in situations that triggered strong emotional reactions, thereby increasing their chance of survival.

While the concept of confirmation bias may have been essential in the evolution of early humans, it can cause problems in both personal and professional settings. The individual or institution unaware of such bias may disregard or overlook important information. Without the appropriate safeguards, such bias can result in erroneous conclusions, faulty decisions, misdiagnoses, invalid scientific results, and even false convictions. Awareness is critical to taking the steps needed to ensure a logical, informed decision-making process.

For more information on confirmation bias, visit the following websites:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/articles/c/confirmation_ bias.htm

http://skepdic.com/confirmbias.html

Learn more about this author, Melinda Clayton.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.