How Awareness of Conflicting Beliefs Can Make You a Better Human
People are living in bubbles, and you’re probably living in one too
Have you ever heard yourself say, “well, I don’t really care,” during a heated discussion? Or perhaps ended such conversation with “that’s how I’ve always done it?”
Chances are that you are experiencing cognitive dissonance — the psychological distress we feel when absorbing new information that does not fit within our pre-existing beliefs.
“I smoke cigarettes every day and I know that smoking is bad for you.”
When people are faced with such contradictory or incompatible statements, the discomfort that follows usually leads to one of four things:
Modify
“I’m more of a social smoker, so it’s not that bad.”
Rationalize
“I exercise so much that it really doesn’t matter if I smoke.”
Trivialize
“My aunt smoked a pack a day and lived till she was literally a 100.”
Deny
“Evidence that smoking is linked to cancer is actually weak.”
Besides smoking, studies have also examined the influence of cognitive dissonance in finance, marketing, and even political ideology.
Researchers found both liberals and conservatives were equally prone to denying opposite views on social issues. Not because they believed they knew more about the issue — but rather to avoid the discomfort that arises from cognitive dissonance.
Just imagine…
Avoiding certain people or resisting listening to new ideas your whole life because of this queasy feeling you get when you have to listen to, or worse — justify your beliefs to those who disagree with you.
Not only does such selective exposure that arises from avoiding cognitive dissonance further reinforce your worldview — but it also hinders personal growth.
Practicing self-awareness is key in recognizing how cognitive dissonance might be affecting your life.
So, the next time you feel frustrated because of something you read online or you heard a point you disagree with — be introspective and ask yourself:
- Where do I agree and disagree?
- Am I actively listening with an open mind?
- Am I uncomfortable with this statement because I do not believe in it or because others do?
- Where is the common ground?
Avoiding people you disagree with is easy. Living inside a bubble is easier.
You could be missing out on meeting new people, expanding your potential, or exploring new vocations. Practice self-awareness and challenge yourself to embrace the other side.
