Understanding Cognitive Biases
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Speaker: Welcome to today’s discussion on the fascinating topic of cognitive biases. Cognitive biases are systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment. These biases can affect our decision-making processes, leading individuals to draw illogical conclusions based on irrelevant details or subjective experiences. For instance, the confirmation bias occurs when people favor information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs while disregarding contradictory evidence. Another type, the anchoring bias, influences how we estimate values based on initial information presented to us, even if that information is not relevant. By recognizing these biases in ourselves and others, we can improve our critical thinking skills and enhance our decision-making. Understanding cognitive biases is not just for psychologists; it is crucial for anyone who wants to make better decisions in their daily lives.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
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