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Tensions Between Science and Intuition Across the Lifespan
Andrew Shtulman1, Kelsey Harrington1
1Department of Psychology, Occidental College.
Topics in Cognitive Science
|November 28, 2015
Summary
Intuitive theories, like those about astronomy and evolution, persist for decades even after learning scientific facts. This cognitive bias affects scientific literacy and reasoning in adults, including scientists.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Science Education
- Psychology
Background:
- Scientific understanding of critical policy issues (e.g., climate change, vaccination) often contradicts intuitive theories.
- Intuitive theories, formed early in life, can be highly resistant to change.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the persistence of intuitive theories despite contradictory scientific knowledge.
- To examine how age influences the resilience of intuitive theories.
Main Methods:
- Participants (younger and older adults) verified scientific statements, some consistent and some inconsistent with intuition.
- Response times were measured to assess the cognitive conflict between intuitive and scientific knowledge.
- The study included professional scientists to assess persistence in experts.
Main Results:
- Intuitive theories persisted for over 40 years beyond acquiring mutually exclusive scientific theories across 10 domains.
- A significant response time lag between intuition-consistent and inconsistent statements was observed, larger in older adults.
- This lag persisted even among professional scientists.
Conclusions:
- Intuitive theories demonstrate remarkable resilience, persisting long after scientific education.
- Cognitive patterns established in childhood can significantly constrain scientific literacy and reasoning in adulthood.
- Addressing this persistence is crucial for effective science communication and policy engagement.
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