Confirmation bias refers to the tendency for people to seek out and interpret information in a way that confirms their existing beliefs. This phenomenon is well-documented in psychological research and has important implications for how we think about truth and knowledge. Here’s an in-depth, biblical look at confirmation bias.
First, what exactly is confirmation bias? Put simply, it’s the tendency to favor information that confirms our preexisting beliefs or hypotheses. For example, if someone believes that the earth is flat, they will be more likely to seek out and accept “evidence” that aligns with this belief, while dismissing or ignoring evidence that contradicts it.
This phenomenon happens unconsciously – we don’t deliberately seek out confirming information. Rather, our brains are wired to notice and assign more value to details that match our expectations. Information that challenges our assumptions, on the other hand, often requires more cognitive effort to process. As a result, we tend to brush it aside.
Confirmation bias affects us all. It’s part of human nature. As the book of Jeremiah observes, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9) Even when we consciously try to be objective, psychological biases subtly steer our thinking.
In many cases, confirmation bias operates relatively harmlessly. For example, a sports fan might interpret every refereeing decision in favor of their team as fair, while seeing the opposing team’s points as undeserved. Such biases help bolster our self-esteem and group identity.
However, confirmation bias also leads to dangerous consequences when applied to more important domains like science, politics, and religion. It fosters close-mindedness, exaggerates ideological differences, and prevents us from spotting our own errors. Proverbs 18:17 notes that “The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.” Our perspective is always limited.
How does confirmation bias relate to faith and spirituality? For Christians, the Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of humility and self-reflection. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind,” Paul urges in Romans 12:2. He Elsewhere, he instructs believers to “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5).
Intellectual humility requires acknowledging our natural human tendencies toward biased thinking. As the prophet Jeremiah wisely prayed, “I know, O Lord, that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps” (Jeremiah 10:23). We need God’s truth and wisdom to overcome our blind spots.
So how can Christians become more aware of confirmation bias and approach information objectively? Here are a few tips:
– Actively look for evidence against your position. Don’t just seek out confirming facts. The book of Proverbs encourages, “The first to plead his case seems right, until another comes and examines him” (Proverbs 18:17).
– Look for disconfirming evidence in sources you trust and respect. Information from expected critics is easier to dismiss.
– Be aware of your emotional reaction when encountering disconfirming evidence. Strong feelings of defensiveness may signal bias.
– Consider counterarguments and alternate hypotheses. Even if you don’t accept them, mentally argue against your position.
– Question assumptions and examine potential biases. Ask, “How would someone who disagrees respond to my reasoning?”
– Seek input from people likely to disagree with you. Don’t just consult those who already share your viewpoint. As Proverbs 15:22 says, “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
– When making important decisions, carefully weigh evidence on all sides. Don’t just accept proof that matches your initial preference. As Proverbs 18:13 warns, “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.”
– Be willing to change your mind if the evidence demands it. Admitting errors takes humility, but it’s essential for growth. “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid,” observes Proverbs 12:1.
Ultimately, confirmation bias stems from our fallen, imperfect human nature. On our own, it’s impossible to fully overcome. We need the wisdom of God’s Word and the renewing power of the Holy Spirit to regenerate our minds (Romans 12:2). Through prayer and humility, we can become more aware of biases and open to truths that may contradict our assumptions.
When it comes to faith, relying on God rather than our limited human reason is essential. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding,” Proverbs 3:5 encourages. Our perspectives are finite, but God sees all. Submitting to Him in humility and asking for wisdom enables us to transcend biases and discern truth rightly.
In summary, confirmation bias is a profound challenge, but not an insurmountable one. By grounding ourselves in scripture, surrounding ourselves with wise community, and pursuing self-reflection with God’s help, we can become humbler, more thoughtful truth-seekers. Though our nature is flawed, the Spirit can illuminate our minds and reveal blind spots if we invite Him. With an eternal perspective, what matters most is not confirming our own opinions, but learning to see reality as God does.
