Final answer:
Automation bias describes the tendency of individuals to over-trust in automated technology (option A), possibly leading to overlooking errors and failing to intervene when necessary. This cognitive bias can arise from witnessing the efficiency and accuracy of automated systems. However, it's important to balance this trust with awareness of the limitations of technology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Automation bias is the tendency of people to place an excessive amount of trust in automated systems or technology. This bias can lead individuals to overlook errors made by automation because they believe the technology is infallible or to fail to adequately check or take control when needed. An example reflective of automation bias is when a driver over-reliably trusts a car's autonomous driving system and does not remain fully alert to potential issues or take over when necessary.
People might exhibit automation bias due to the efficiency and accuracy that automated systems showcase in operating routine tasks or complex calculations, which can overshadow human abilities in certain contexts. However, over-reliance on automation without proper oversight and the ability to intervene can lead to potentially dangerous situations or complacency in critical decision-making processes.
This cognitive bias aligns people with technology as they start to perceive it as a reliable part of their 'tribe' or group that shares values, such as efficiency and effectiveness. It also encourages a relinquishing of control to these automated systems which, while not inherently bad, should always be tempered with situational awareness and the understanding that technology has limitations.