IT'S EVERYWHERE

Confirmation Bias.

It begins with the human tendency to assume we are right. From there we seek out or accept only evidence that supports our belief. (That's where the "confirmation" comes in.) Furthermore, we reject or ignore any evidence that would run counter to our belief.

A common example is your belief that you always pick the wrong line at the grocery store check out. You don't pay attention to all the times your line moves quickly towards the cashier. No, but you DO notice the relatively few times you find yourself regretting your choice. THOSE times catch your attention and you find yourself thinking, "I ALWAYS pick the wrong line!" 

But Confirmation Bias is everywhere. And in everyone. 

It is tricky because it is easy to see in others (once you are aware of the concept). But nearly impossible to detect in ourselves.

It explains a lot of the most puzzling human behaviors, decisions and attitudes.

For instance - the power of first impressions. It is common knowledge - and experience - that first impressions (formed within 30 seconds or less, some say) are extremely sticky. But why should they be?

It's because of Confirmation Bias. We make a judgment about this new acquaintance - positive or negative - and then instantly set our minds to looking for confirming evidence while ignoring contradicting evidence.

We fool ourselves about how logical and intuitive and perceptive we are.  

Look for Confirmation Bias and you will see it EVERYWHERE.