The Influence of Motivated Sampling on Persistent False Beliefs
Why do people sometimes maintain false beliefs (such as stereotypes)? We live in a world with unprecedented opportunities to put our false beliefs to the test (e.g., access to information, potential to have contact with outgroups, etc.). And yet, false beliefs persist, e.g. in the form of stereotypes.
In this project, we investigate the role that our goals and choices have on the maintenance of false beliefs. We investigate how factors such as the frequency of positive (or negative) outcomes, people鈥檚 goals, or personality traits (e.g., risk propensity) affect their choices and how the outcomes of those choices can result in perpetuated biases such as irrational fears or stereotypes.
Involved researchers
- I am a PhD candidate in psychology, primarily interested in learning and decision-making. My PhD project focuses on motivated sampling and the persistence of irrational fears.
- I am an assistant professor and interested in decision-making and especially decisions by experience. My research focusses on why false beliefs (e.g., stereotypes) can be so persistent.
- I am an associate professor, working on goal-directed behaviour, habits, and the role of consciousness. I am involved in various projects exploring these issues in relation to AI and fear-learning. I am co-directing the GoalLab with Baptist Liefooghe.