Explain in your example how people are gathering and accepting evidence when it supports this false belief, but ignoring and dismissing evidence when it does not support the belief.

This video shows a demonstration of curvature of the Earth and, more importantly, the confirmation bias people engage in to maintain their beliefs when presented with contradictory evidence

(must watch this video for discussion)

Confirmation Bias is people’s tendency to gather and accept evidence when it supports their current beliefs, but ignore or dismiss it when it goes against their beliefs
In this video, the Center for Inquiry Investigations Group visits the Salton Sea to show that objects can be blocked by the curvature of the Earth when they are at a sufficient distance.
Pay attention, however, to how people dismiss evidence that does not support their current beliefs, and how they strategically gather evidence in support of their beliefs
While this is a demonstration using one specific belief, also look for parallels with other topics, such as current political debates
Note, however, that this Confirmation Bias is not described specifically by name in this module/chapter, but is rather alluded to when the book discusses “expectation biases”. Confirmation Bias is, however, specifically taught in lecture (and mentioned in a later chapter in the textbook)

In this discussion, provide another example of confirmation bias. Explain in your example how people are gathering and accepting evidence when it supports this false belief, but ignoring and dismissing evidence when it does not support the belief. Your posting needs to be a unique example, so it cannot use Flat Earth or any other examples already posted by classmates.

Finally, also include ways to avoid confirmation bias as you post and respond to others.

Review the discussion rubric prior to posting. For maximum credit, work to integrate an outside resource, or relevant research, or specific real-life application (work experience, prior coursework, etc.) to support important points. Remember to actively stimulate and sustain further discussion by building on your peers’ responses including — building a focused argument around a specific issue or — asking a new related question or — making an oppositional statement supported by personal experience or related research.

Last Completed Projects

topic title academic level Writer delivered