Why do we defend or reject ideas?

2020-07-28

We encounter an idea. We gather and analyze data, and compare the result with the idea in question. If they are compatible, we will defend the idea, and if they are contradictory, we will reject it. Right?

Well, that's rarely the case. What really happens is that we quickly form an opinion based on our previous beliefs, affiliations, and biases. Then, in order to be able to defend or reject the idea, we start looking for data and we build arguments. That's the opposite of what's supposed to happen.

Who's the real loser in this scenario?

— the end —