We have been examining the role that research plays in our decision-making process. Research also helps us to develop and apply critical thinking skills. Critical thinking is an essential skill which enables us to identify and avoid common fallacies.
For example, we tend to think that if something has not happened in a while, it will happen soon. This is called the Gambler’s Fallacy. If you flip a coin 10 times and it comes up heads each time, we think that the chances increase that tails will come on the eleventh flip. In all actuality, the odds for tails are no greater than the odds for heads.
Another common fallacy that gives us trouble is referred to as the Attribution Error. We attribute negative outcomes to others, but we believe we are personally responsible for positive outcomes. I must admit that I have been occasionally guilty of succumbing to this fallacy – just ask my husband.
Construct an essay that answers the following questions: Can you think of a time when you have fallen prey to one of these common fallacies? Are there methods we can employ in our personal and professional lives to avoid making these kinds of errors?
