The Authority Bias

The tendency to take on the opinion of someone who's seen as an authority on a subject.

First, we over-value the opinion of mommy and daddy, then our peers, our teachers and our personal god(s). Later on, it's experts on stuff: art critics, pundits, doctors, repair people, and so on. Adoring the opinion on one expert is risky. There's always a second, third, fourth opinion. "But what if I don't have the time or money for another opinion?" Then you're screwed, or could be. "And what if a really brilliant expert screws up?" That's bad luck.

BrainTip: Inquire about the credentials of so-called experts? Gather, at least, one more opinion, especially if the issue is import and, if your health of wealth are at risk. Think critically!