We classify as relevant the facts we’re willing to hear.
Please discuss. How does this play out in life?
I’ll start us out. Many of us like to believe we’re critical thinkers. Good decision making—to us—involves factoring in pertinent information. We do our best to ensure we research our major choices in advance, looking for unbiased data.
So much of what is available to us from a variety of outlets has intrinsic spin. We wade through it carefully, seeking out data that seems true and accurate. Hence, we insert our own bias into the filtering process.
Today’s message reminds me of the pitfalls of hunting for relevant facts. I will certainly want to use trusted sources in my research. But I will also benefit from digging into a few news outlets that run counter to my general opinions. In doing so, I may confirm my certainty that my ideas are sound OR I may learn something new. I will make my best decisions when my mind is open.
How about you? Are you willing to research opinions that oppose your natural tendencies?