Cognitive Error

Definition

A cognitive error refers to a mental mistake or bias in thinking that leads individuals to make incorrect judgments or hold onto false beliefs, even when presented with evidence that contradicts them. It is a deviation from rational and logical reasoning.

Related terms

Confirmation Bias: This term describes the tendency to seek out and interpret information that confirms our preexisting beliefs while ignoring or downplaying contradictory evidence.

Belief Perseverance: Refers to the tendency to cling onto one's initial beliefs even after they have been discredited or proven wrong.

Anchoring Bias: Occurs when we rely too heavily on an initial piece of information (anchor) when making decisions, failing to adjust sufficiently for subsequent information.