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Second-guess: Testing the specificity of error detection in the bat-and-ball problem
Bence Bago1, Matthieu Raoelison1, Wim De Neys1
1LaPsyDE (CNRS Unit 8240), Sorbonne - Paris Descartes University, Paris, France.
Acta Psychologica
|January 22, 2019
Summary
Biased reasoners often detect errors in their intuitive judgments. Even without knowing the correct answer, they adjust their second guesses to be closer to the accurate solution, indicating greater error awareness.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Decision-Making Science
Background:
- Biased reasoning can lead to intuitive responses conflicting with logic.
- Previous studies suggest biased reasoners can detect questionable answers.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the nature and specificity of error signals in biased reasoners.
- Utilize a second-guess paradigm to probe conflict detection.
Main Methods:
- Participants solved the bat-and-ball problem.
- A second-guess paradigm was employed after initial responses.
- Multiple methods were used to elicit second guesses across three studies.
Main Results:
- Biased reasoners predominantly made second guesses smaller than the initial intuitive response (10 cents).
- Reasoners correctly inferred the answer was less than 10 cents, though not the exact value (5 cents).
Conclusions:
- Biased reasoners demonstrate a degree of insight into their errors.
- Findings suggest greater 'savviness' about errors than previously assumed.
- Implications for conflict detection and dual-process theories are discussed.
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