Question

Bill holds very strong political opinions; he assumes that because he thinks they are obviously correct, most other people must believe the same way. This is an example of:

a) Confirmation bias
b) False consensus effect
c) Cognitive dissonance
d) Social loafing

Answer 1

Bill's assumption that others share his strong political opinions because he considers them correct is an example of the false consensus effect, a type of cognitive bias where people overestimate how much others share their beliefs.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Bill assumes that because his political opinions are correct, most other people must also believe the same, this exemplifies the false consensus effect. This cognitive bias occurs when individuals overestimate the degree to which their beliefs, preferences, values, and habits are normal and typical of those of others. It is distinct from confirmation bias, which involves seeking or interpreting information in ways that are partial to existing beliefs, expectations, or a hypothesis in hand.

While the false consensus effect can influence the perception of a consensus that may not exist, confirmation bias is more about reinforcing existing beliefs. It is important to recognize these biases to analyze information and opinions critically and understand others' perspectives more accurately.