KhizooologyThe Believing Brain
Test the explanation you want to believe.
Big Idea
Shermer argues that people often form beliefs first and then use reasoning to defend them.
Finding Patterns
The mind can detect meaningful connections but can also see patterns in coincidence.
Assuming Intention
Shermer calls the tendency to assign agency to events agenticity.
Protecting a Belief
Confirming examples can seem more important than evidence that challenges a preferred explanation.
Beliefs Across Domains
The book applies its argument to politics, religion, and conspiracy thinking.
Checking Claims
Scientific testing offers ways to expose errors rather than relying only on personal conviction.
Apply the Test Fairly
The account does not establish that every religious or political belief has the same cause.
Khizooo Take
Name an observation that would count against your belief before searching for more examples that support it.
Remember
A satisfying pattern still needs a test.