Final answer:
Belief perseverance refers to the tendency to stick with our original beliefs even in the face of strong counter-evidence. It is the cognitive bias that causes us to ignore or downplay contradictory information and continue to hold onto our initial beliefs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question is c) belief perseverance. Belief perseverance refers to the tendency to stick with our original beliefs even in the face of strong counter-evidence. It is the cognitive bias that causes us to ignore or downplay contradictory information and continue to hold onto our initial beliefs. For example, if someone strongly believes in a conspiracy theory and is presented with evidence that disproves it, they may still cling to their belief and dismiss the counter-evidence.
Belief perseverance can have significant implications in areas such as politics, religion, and personal relationships. It can lead to a resistance to change, hinder critical thinking, and prevent us from considering alternative perspectives. Overcoming belief perseverance requires open-mindedness, willingness to examine evidence objectively, and the ability to challenge and update our beliefs based on new information.