Cognitive Illusions

Cognitive illusions are biases in our thinking that can lead us to make errors in judgment or hold incorrect beliefs. Unlike optical illusions that deceive our vision, cognitive illusions arise from the way our brain processes information. They can stem from preconceived notions, emotional influences, or mental shortcuts we use to save time. For instance, we might overestimate the likelihood of dramatic events because they are more memorable, leading us to misjudge risks. Understanding these illusions helps us improve critical thinking and make more informed decisions by recognizing our mental traps.