Confirmation bias is a psychological phenomenon where individuals tend to favor information that confirms their existing beliefs or opinions. This means that when people encounter new data, they are more likely to accept it if it aligns with what they already think, while dismissing or ignoring information that contradicts their views. This bias can affect decision-making and critical thinking.
This tendency can be observed in various contexts, such as politics, where individuals may only seek out news sources that support their views on issues related to political parties or policies. It can also influence personal beliefs about health, science, or social issues, leading to a skewed understanding of reality.