Apophenia

Full Title or Meme

What psychologists call Apophenia - the human tendency to see connections and patterns that are not really there—gives rise to conspiracy theories

Context

"Agenticity"

In The Believing Brain (2011), Shermer wrote that humans have "the tendency to infuse patterns with meaning, intention, and agency", which he called "agenticity".

References

• Merriam Webster, 3rd International Dictionary. : the tendency to perceive a connection or meaningful pattern between unrelated or random things (such as objects or ideas)

Michael Shermer, Why Do We Need a Belief in God. (2011-08-19) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQO4y2bueAM&feature=BFa&list=PLCD25E214FF0BCD3B&index=2