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The science of belief: A progress report
Nicolas Porot1, Eric Mandelbaum2
1Philosophy, The Centre for Philosophical Psychology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews. Cognitive Science
|July 7, 2020
Summary
The empirical study of belief reveals automatic fixation, fragmented storage, and dual systems for belief change. Understanding these cognitive processes is crucial for addressing misinformation and shaping our information environment.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Psychology
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- The empirical study of belief is a rapidly growing interdisciplinary field.
- Beliefs are fundamental to understanding and predicting human behavior across various psychological domains.
- Existing research highlights generalizations in how beliefs are formed, stored, and modified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current empirical research on the cognitive science of belief.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying belief fixation, storage, and change.
- To connect the psychology of belief to real-world issues like misinformation.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of empirical and observational data from cognitive science, psychology, and philosophy.
- Analysis of existing literature on belief fixation, storage, and change.
- Examination of theoretical models including the Spinozan system and psychological immune system.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports an automatic, Spinozan system for belief fixation, independent of rejection.
- Belief storage appears fragmented, utilizing numerous causally isolated, context-specific memory stores.
- Two primary systems of belief change exist: one adhering to epistemic norms, and another, the psychological immune system, protecting core beliefs.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the cognitive architecture of belief is essential for navigating the modern information landscape.
- Insights into belief systems can inform strategies against the exploitation of psychology by fake news and propaganda.
- Further research refining these models can enhance our ability to construct a more resilient informational world.
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