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Ambiguity Effect


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Ambiguity Effect

The Ambiguity Effect is a cognitive bias where people tend to avoid making decisions when there is a lack of information. It is like when you don't know which flavor of ice cream to pick because you don't know what each one tastes like. You can't make a decision because you don't have enough information. This can cause people to make decisions that are not in their best interest.

Uncertainty, Vagueness, Undecided, Choice Overload.

Thomas Lee

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Ambiguity Effect

The Ambiguity Effect is a cognitive bias that occurs when humans are presented with multiple options that have uncertain outcomes. It is a logical fallacy that states that people are more likely to avoid options with potential uncertainty or risk than to choose options with known outcomes. This tendency is related to the fear of the unknown and the drive to avoid potential losses. The Ambiguity Effect is often seen in decision making processes, as people are more likely to choose a known option than an unknown one. This bias has been found to be especially pronounced when the unknown option has a higher potential for reward. As such, the Ambiguity Effect can lead to suboptimal decision making and can be a detriment to the individual or group.

Ambiguity, Cognitive Bias, Logical Fallacy, Decision Making.

Jessica Adams

CITATION : "Jessica Adams. 'Ambiguity Effect.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=213660 (Accessed on March 23, 2023)"


Ambiguity Effect Definition
Ambiguity Effect on Design+Encyclopedia

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