Anchoring bias

/ˈæŋ.kɚ.ɪŋ ˈbaɪ.əs/ noun

Definition

The systematic tendency to rely too heavily on the first piece of information encountered when making subsequent judgments or decisions.

Etymology

From Latin 'ancora' (anchor) + Old French 'biais' (slant). Being slanted by an initial anchor.

Kelly Says

Anchoring bias means the first number you hear sticks — a high initial price makes a 'discount' seem amazing, even if the final price is still too much!

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