The discussion over whether biased thinking is biologically inherent remains an ongoing debate within fields like psychology, genetics and neuroscience, examined through the lenses of nature and nurture (Haselton et al., 2005). Biases are mental heuristics and cognitive shortcuts that influence judgement and decision-making (Dale, 2015). This essay critically explores biological factor’s impact on biased thinking, exploring the interplay between nature and nurture in shaping cognitive processes.
Evolutionary psychology highlights the biological basis of biases, suggesting they evolved as adaptive responses to ancestral challenges (Haselton et al., 2005). Confirmation biases served to reinforce beliefs, facilitating effective decisions in perilous environments. Furthermore, heuristics accommodated for potential survival threats and opportunities (Korteling et al., 2018).
Neuroscientific studies link specific brain regions to biased thinking. The amygdala associates with negativity bias (Yoshida et al., 2021), while the prefrontal cortex relates to the anchoring bias (Li et al., 2017; Mochol et al., 2021). This hints at biological predisposition for certain biases.
Biological factors exert influence, yet social and environmental inputs are vital to biased thinking’s development. Social learning theory highlights the impact of the social environment, via peers, family and cultural norms (Spelke & Kinzler, 2007; Rumjaun & Narod, 2020). Exposure to influential figures values, beliefs and biases happens throughout childhood and adolescence.
Cultural norms are seen to foster group biases, yielding out-group prejudice and in-group favouritism. Media exposure perpetuates selective narratives and stereotypes, intensifying existing biases, interacting with biological tendencies, amplifying and shaping patterns of cognition (KiralyI & Buttelmann, 2017).
Behavioural genetics explores genetic contributions to biases and the ensuing ethical dilemmas (Nuffield Council on Bioethics, 2002). Family and twin studies demonstrate heritable components in certain biases (Virolainen et al., 2022; Hagenbeek et al., 2023). Genetic factors moderate environmental impact on bias development (Eley et al., 2007). However, genes do not act alone, the interplay with the environment is vital.
Neuroplasticity, the brain’s adaptability, enables the modification of cognitive bias through learning, education and diverse perspectives. Despite the genetic and biological factors discussed, there is room for change and adaptation (Mrazek et al., 2013). This can be seen through interventions such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, which dramatically and effectively has reduced biased thinking in certain individuals (Fordham et al., 2018; Mobini et al., 2012)
In conclusion, the question of whether humans are biologically predisposed to be biased thinkers involves a complex interplay between nature and nurture. While cognitive neuroscience and evolutionary psychology highlight the role of biological factors in the origins of biases, environmental and social influences play a crucial role in their development and reinforcement. Further interplay from gene-environment adds to the complexity, emphasing the need to research the interactions between external factors and genetic predispositions in shaping biased thinking.
Finally, the recognition of human cognition plasticity and the interventions in place to reduce biased thinking offers hope for promoting more open minded and objective thinking and decision making for individuals and society as a whole. Replacing antiquated ideas that often have cast humans as making unfounded and illogical errors (Hastleton et al., 2005).
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