Congative Bias Flashcards
What is NAS’ definition of cognitive bias?
“A pattern of deviation in judgement whereby influences about other people and situations can be drawn in an illogical fashion”
When is cognitive bias applicable?
When subjective or interpretive work is required
What is expectation bias?
When there is scope for ambiguity you see what you want to see
If you think you will find it, you will find it.
Example of expectation bias?
An arson investigator relying on a witness and coming to a conclusion based on that and analysing the crime scene with the expectation of finding evidence to support that.
What is confirmation bias?
Hypothesis given or created suggests the required result, so the null hypothesis is not tested.
Give an example of confirmation bias.
“Check these for a match” - this would make you subconsciously see the similarities but not the differences. You are only looking at one side of an argument, you should consider other hypotheses.
What is the anchoring effect?
Reliance upon initial information. The first piece of evidence or the first thought is the evidence that you give most credence to.
Example of anchoring effect?
“John Smith did it” - therefore that’s the only avenue you persue. Look for evidence with the only thought in mind is that john smith committed the crime. No other possibilities are explored.
The anchoring effect can be attributed the the Madrid Train bombings, why?
Brandon mayfield. Spanish police wanted help, asked FBI. They found a bit of intelligence to suggest he did it. Found his print to Match with the partial on a component of the explosive. Conclusion was based around information initially given.
What is contextual bias?
Unconscious bias based on what you hope and expect
Conciously make up your mind based on the other erroneous information given
