Naive realism
The belief that we see the world objectively, as it really is, so people who disagree with us must be uninformed, irrational, or biased. We forget that our own view is also shaped by our experience and values.
In everyday life
In a political argument, a person assumes the other side just hasn't seen the facts, because the facts seem obvious to them.
Your neighbor opposes the new park plan, and you conclude they simply haven't read about it, since anyone who had would surely agree with you.
Why your mind does this
We see our own intentions, reasons, and circumstances from the inside, while we only see other people's actions from the outside. Trusting our own view helps us act with confidence and stay alert to people who might take advantage of us.
Its family, in 30 seconds: Others' flaws
How to spot it
Notice when you assume that anyone who had your information would reach your conclusion.
How to counter it
Ask the other person to explain how they see the issue and what experiences shape their view, before you explain yours.
Habits that catch it
- Argue the other side
Before you commit, write the strongest case against your view. If you can't, you don't know the question well enough yet.
Same family: Others' flaws
- Bias blind spot
- Naive cynicism
- Naive realism
SourcesRobinson et al. (1995)·Wikipedia