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The Value of Beliefs.
Ethan S Bromberg-Martin1, Tali Sharot2
1Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Neuron
|May 22, 2020
Summary
Our brains balance forming accurate beliefs for decisions with forming desirable beliefs we value. Emerging neuroscience reveals how the brain is motivated to shape these beliefs.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Decision-Making
Background:
- Humans hold beliefs to navigate the world and derive personal satisfaction.
- These two goals—accuracy and desirability—can conflict, creating cognitive tension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the neuroscience behind belief formation motivation.
- To understand the brain mechanisms driving the selection of accurate versus desirable beliefs.
Main Methods:
- Review of emerging neuroscience research.
- Analysis of studies investigating belief motivation and cognitive biases.
Main Results:
- The brain employs distinct motivational systems for belief accuracy and desirability.
- Neuroimaging studies show differential activation patterns related to these two goals.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the neural basis of belief motivation is crucial for cognitive science.
- This research sheds light on the complex interplay between cognition, emotion, and decision-making.
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