Sochsuch

Sochsuch is a neologism used in information science and digital culture studies to describe a cognitive and procedural pattern in which individuals, after forming a belief, undertake information seeking in a way that prioritizes sources and results that reinforce that belief, rather than pursuing a balanced examination of evidence. The term is commonly discussed in the context of online search behavior and social media, where algorithms and user strategies can reinforce confirmation.

Origin and usage: Sochsuch combines elements suggested by "soch" (Hindi/Urdu for thought) and "such" (from English "search"), but is used broadly in English-language discourse as a label for the described phenomenon. It emerged during the late 2010s and has appeared in scholarly commentary, blog posts, and media literacy discussions, though it is not yet standardized or widely adopted in formal terminology.

Mechanism: The pattern typically involves a belief formation, followed by a selective search that prioritizes confirming sources, and a retrieval bias toward corroborative material. Over time, exposure to supportive content and algorithmic recommendations can create a feedback loop that strengthens initial beliefs and narrows perceived evidence.

Implications: Sochsuch is discussed in relation to misinformation, political polarization, and media literacy education. Understanding it helps educators and researchers analyze how search strategies interact with cognitive biases.

Criticism: Some scholars view sochsuch as a vague term overlapping with established concepts like confirmation bias, echo chambers, and filter bubbles; others call for clearer operational definitions and measurement in empirical work.

See also: confirmation bias, echo chamber, filter bubble, information literacy, cognitive dissonance.