As someone who values becoming right over proving that I was right, and who doesn’t identify strongly with labels or tribes, this makes some sense to me: most people aren’t like that.
Originally shared by Neuroscience News
How Political Parties Influence Our Belief, and What We Can Do About It
Psychologists suggest that valuing our identity more than our accuracy is what leads us to accept incorrect information that aligns with our political party’s beliefs. This value discrepancy, they say, can explain why high-quality news sources are no longer enough–and understanding it can help us find better strategies to bridge the political divide.
The research is in Trends in Cognitive Sciences. (full open access)
“Us” versus “Them” is hard-wired and it takes at least some self-awareness to be able to fight the instinct.
The trouble is belonging to an “Us” feels good for very good evolutionary reasons.
Fake news (catering to the beliefs of your group) is nothing new it’s just more visible nowadays.
IMHO of course. 🙂
Part of being rational, civilized people is learning to be aware of our instincts and decide whether or not to follow them.