The cognitive bias codex

This is a very interesting chart.

It breaks down the way we process information into four categories of biases.

  • Too much information,
  • Not enough meaning,
  • Need to act fast, and
  • What should we remember.

It’s worth a look.

These sorts of findings are often used to cast doubt on our rationality. E.g., “we think we’re rational, but look at all these irrational things we do.”

While that’s fair to a point, I think there’s another side to it. We also have to recognize that these things developed for a reason. These biases were selected because they helped us get along in a big, confusing world. So, while we should bear in mind that we have biases, we should also have some level of respect for the practical utility of those biases.

I’ll believe in diversity, equity and inclusion …

… when a substantial portion of the alleged advocates start saying things like:

  • This company doesn’t have enough Trump voters,
  • We should make the office more welcoming for Evangelicals,
  • We need to be sensitive to the feelings of people who believe in traditional, monogamous marriage,
  • There should be a “men in leadership” initiative for every “women in leadership” initiative, ….

Actually, even then I won’t. Diversity is not a legitimate goal on its own.

And not quite along the same lines, but here’s more nutty woke news: Is Anheuser-Busch Drunk? The Beer Behemoth Is Forcing the Woke ‘Gender Unicorn’ on Its Employees