The following text discusses cognitive bias.
Confirmation bias—the tendency to seek, interpret, and remember information that confirms existing beliefs—is pervasive in human reasoning. Political partisans, for example, tend to accept favorable information about their party at face value while scrutinizing unfavorable information intensely. Even scientists, trained in objectivity, may unconsciously favor results that support their hypotheses. Awareness of confirmation bias doesn't eliminate it but can motivate deliberate countermeasures: actively seeking disconfirming evidence, preregistering research designs, and inviting critique from those who disagree.
What does the text suggest about overcoming confirmation bias?
Simply being aware of the bias is enough to eliminate it
Deliberate strategies are needed since awareness alone doesn't eliminate the bias
Scientists are completely immune to confirmation bias
Confirmation bias only affects political thinking
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text states "awareness of confirmation bias doesn't eliminate it but can motivate deliberate countermeasures" and lists strategies.
- Evidence: Awareness insufficient; deliberate countermeasures needed.
- Reasoning: Active strategies supplement awareness.
- Conclusion: Deliberate effort beyond awareness is required.
Choice A is incorrect because "awareness...doesn't eliminate it." Choice C is incorrect because scientists too "may unconsciously favor" confirming results. Choice D is incorrect because scientists are also mentioned.