#23: Clustering Illusion

Bias number 23 is known as the clustering illusion. This is a cognitive bias that leads people to create patterns in data sets that are, in fact, random.

We attempt to bring meaning to data analysis by forging links between data sets that, in reality, have no links. As humans, we have a tendency to need to create order from chaos, deriving a narrative that explains the situation, to create coherence. Our brains will create imaginary patterns in an attempt to tie things up nice and neat in a bow.

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