How to Use Critical Thinking to Identify & Overcome Cognitive Bias
Cognitive biases shape how we think, often leading us to make irrational decisions without even realizing it. The good news? You can train your brain to recognize and overcome these biases using five critical thinking skills: analysis, evaluation, problem-solving, inference, and communication.
Let’s explore how to apply these skills to identify and counteract five common cognitive biases.
1. Analysis: Spotting Confirmation Bias
What is Confirmation Bias? This bias makes you favor information that supports your beliefs while ignoring anything that contradicts them.
How to Use Analysis to Overcome It:
- Break down the sources of your information and ask: Is this fact-based or opinion-based?
- Compare multiple perspectives before drawing a final conclusion.
- Ask yourself: If I wanted to disprove my belief, where would I look for evidence?
Pro Tip: Challenge yourself to read articles or listen to debates that argue against your current beliefs. For example, if you strongly believe in a particular economic policy, read well-reasoned arguments from the opposing viewpoint to better understand potential flaws in your perspective.
2. Evaluation: Defeating Anchoring Bias
What is Anchoring Bias? This bias causes you to rely too heavily on the first piece of information you receive (the “anchor”), even when better data is available.
How to Use Evaluation to Overcome It:
- Question the first number, fact, or idea presented to you.
- Compare multiple sources before making a decision.
- Ask: Would I still make the same choice if I had started with a different piece of information?
Pro Tip: When negotiating or making financial decisions, resist the urge to settle on the first figure presented. Look for alternative options first. For example, if you’re buying a car and the dealer gives you a price, research similar vehicles at other dealerships before agreeing. Similarly, if you see a job offer with a salary that seems fair, check industry standards and negotiate accordingly. On social media, if a trending post claims a shocking statistic, verify it with multiple sources before reacting or sharing.
3. Problem-Solving: Overcoming Availability Heuristic
What is Availability Heuristic? This bias leads you to judge the probability of events based on how easily you can recall similar instances. If something is memorable, you assume it’s more common than it actually is. On the flip side, based on a previous negative experience you assume that situation will always be negative moving forward.
How to Use Problem-Solving to Overcome It:
- Instead of relying on gut feelings, gather actual data and statistics.
- Identify gaps in your knowledge before making assumptions.
- Ask: Am I only remembering the most recent or dramatic examples?
Pro Tip: If you’re afraid of flying because of plane crashes on the news, research actual aviation safety statistics. Data beats emotion! For example, compare the statistical likelihood of a plane crash versus a car accident to put risk in perspective.
4. Inference: Battling Overconfidence Bias
What is Overconfidence Bias? This bias makes you overestimate your knowledge, skills, or chances of success.
How to Use Inference to Overcome It:
- Be skeptical of your certainty—ask yourself, Could I be wrong?
- Look for past mistakes and learn from them.
- Gather external feedback before making important decisions.
Pro Tip: Keep a journal of predictions and outcomes. Tracking where you were right and wrong will help you refine your judgment over time. For example, if you predict a stock will rise based on market trends, track its actual performance to assess your accuracy.
5. Communication: Countering the Halo Effect
What is the Halo Effect? This bias causes you to let one positive trait influence your overall judgment about a person or thing.
How to Use Communication to Overcome It:
- Separate individual qualities from overall perception.
- Ask others for different perspectives about a person or product before forming an opinion.
- Engage in open discussions where you challenge assumptions with facts.
Pro Tip: Before hiring someone based on charisma or appearance, ask for their track record of actual performance. For example, if a candidate seems confident in an interview, verify their past achievements and references to ensure their skills match their confidence.
BONUS: Applying These Skills to Political Posts on Social Media
Social media is a battleground of opinions, often fueled by cognitive biases. Here’s how you can apply these critical thinking skills before reacting to a political post:
- Analysis: Ask yourself if the post cites credible sources or if it’s emotionally charged without supporting facts.
- Evaluation: Check multiple sources, including those with opposing viewpoints, before forming an opinion.
- Problem-Solving: Look beyond headlines and memes—verify claims using fact-checking sites.
- Inference: Recognize when personal biases might be influencing your judgment and actively challenge them.
- Communication: Engage in respectful discussions rather than reacting impulsively. Ask clarifying questions instead of making assumptions.
Pro Tip: Before sharing a post, pause and ask, Would I believe this if it supported the opposing side? For example, if a post criticizes a political leader you dislike, consider whether you would accept the same argument if it were about a leader you support. This helps to identify emotional bias and seek objective facts.
Critical Thinking and Cognitive Bias: Final Thoughts
Critical Thinking and Cognitive Bias: Remember, cognitive biases influence everyone—but by applying analysis, evaluation, problem-solving, inference, and communication, you can train yourself to recognize and reduce their impact. The next time you’re faced with a decision, take a step back and challenge your thought process. Your future self will thank you!
Are you ready to level up your critical thinking? Start questioning your biases today!
What’s your biggest cognitive bias? Drop a comment below and let’s discuss!