This week, we dive deeper into the backfire effect, where contradictory information can reinforce rather than change a deeply held belief. When faced with conflicting information, our brains often react emotionally, making it harder to accept new ideas. We discuss how our analysis of information—based on compatibility, coherence, credibility, consensus, and evidence—can be influenced by emotions, leading to belief perseverance. Using examples like nitrox in the 90s and current vaccination debates, we explore how understanding the opposing view can help counter the backfire effect. For divers, staying open to change and analyzing new research and methods is crucial for keeping up with advancements in the field.

Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-backfire-effect-why-our-brains-make-it-difficult-to-change-our-mind

Links: System 1/System 2 thinking: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/teaching-on-old-dog-new-tricks-why-it-is-so-hard-to-unlearn-bad-practices

Further reading: The Oatmeal comic

https://www.themarginalian.org/2014/05/13/backfire-effect-mcraney/

Making the truth stick & the myths fade: Lessons from cognitive psychology

When (fake) news feels true: Intuitions of truth and the acceptance and correction of misinformation

The Prevalence of Backfire Effects After the Correction of Misinformation

Correcting the unknown: Negated corrections may increase belief in misinformation

Tags:  English, Cognitive Biases, Decision Making, Decision-Making, Jenny Lord