In this episode, we dive into cognitive dissonance—the psychological discomfort of confronting facts that challenge our beliefs—and how it impacts decision-making and safety in diving. Drawing on insights from Black Box Thinking by Matthew Syed and examples from aviation, justice, and diving, we explore why even highly educated individuals can resist change to protect their reputation. From misconceptions about Nitrox and gas planning to biases in equipment and training preferences, we examine common examples in diving and discuss how human factors can improve safety. We also share practical steps to reduce cognitive dissonance, embrace learning from failure, and foster open-mindedness in the diving community.

Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/cognitive-dissonance

Links: Ditching in the Hudson of Cactus 1549: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/US_Airways_Flight_1549

Story about cult foollowers expecting a UFO: https://www.minnpost.com/second-opinion/2011/04/when-facts-fail-ufo-cults-birthers-and-cognitive-dissonance

“Unintended co-ejaculators”: https://ethicsunwrapped.utexas.edu/cognitive-dissonance-case-unindicted-co-ejaculator

Examples of cognitive dissonance: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitive_dissonance

Tags:  English, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Human Factors