We routinely think we are correct, and we are confident in our correctness.
This is epitomized by two adjacent observations: confirmation bias and the Dunning-Kruger effect. We seek only what we want to hear (subconsciously), and don’t know enough to know that we don’t know anything (also subconsciously).

You can imagine that this is a dangerous combination with regards to critical thinking and accuracy.

Another way that we simply goof on thinking is through our tendency for overconfidence. Hey, a little bit of self- confidence is important, but too much can steer you straight into error after error. Recall the tragedy of the RMS Titanic, which was reputed to be indestructible to the point where there was a severe shortage of lifeboats onboard.

Continue reading “You’re Wrong, I’m Right”