The Wason Selection Task || Classic Puzzle #03

Introduction

The Wason Selection Task is a classic logic puzzle that reveals how our cognitive biases can influence decision-making. Designed by cognitive psychologist Peter C. Wason, this puzzle challenges our ability to test hypotheses effectively. In this tutorial, we will break down the steps to understand and solve the Wason Selection Task, helping you to recognize and overcome confirmation bias.

Step 1: Understand the Puzzle

• Familiarize yourself with the setup of the Wason Selection Task:

  • You are presented with four cards.
  • Each card has a number on one side and a color on the other side.
  • Your goal is to determine which cards you need to flip to test the validity of a specific conditional statement.

• The typical conditional statement you will test is: "If a card shows an even number on one side, then it must be red on the other side."

Step 2: Identify the Relevant Cards

• With the statement in mind, identify the cards that could potentially prove or disprove the hypothesis:

  • Flip the card showing an even number (to check if it is red).
  • Flip the card showing a color that is not red (to check if it has an even number on the other side).

• This means you will need to flip:

  • The card with the even number.
  • The card with a non-red color (like blue or green).

Step 3: Avoid Common Pitfalls

• Be cautious of confirmation bias:

  • Many people tend to only consider evidence that supports their initial beliefs.
  • Ensure you are looking for evidence that could potentially disprove the statement, not just confirm it.

• Don't forget to check both sides of the relevant cards:

  • The task requires flipping cards to see what is on the opposite side.

Step 4: Analyze the Results

• After flipping the cards, analyze the outcomes:

  • If the even-numbered card is red, it supports the statement.
  • If the non-red card has an even number, it disproves the statement.

• Reflect on the reasoning process:

  • Consider what this exercise reveals about your thought patterns and decision-making processes.

Conclusion

The Wason Selection Task is a powerful illustration of how confirmation bias affects our logic and reasoning. By following these steps, you can learn to approach similar puzzles and real-world situations with a more critical mindset. Practice this technique with other conditional statements to further enhance your problem-solving skills. For deeper insights into logic and cognitive biases, explore more puzzles and challenges.