False Consensus Bias

Definition

False consensus bias is a cognitive bias where individuals tend to overestimate the extent to which others share their beliefs, opinions, and behaviors. It leads people to believe that their own attitudes and actions are more common or typical than they actually are.

Related terms

Pluralistic Ignorance: The mistaken belief that others' behavior or attitudes differ from our own when in fact they are similar.

Normative Social Influence: Conforming to social norms due to the desire for approval or fear of rejection.

Confirmation Bias: The tendency to seek out information that supports our preexisting beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence.