Önsketänkande

Önsketänkande, a Swedish term, refers to the belief that something is true or will happen simply because one wishes it to be so. It is a cognitive bias where desires influence judgment and perception, leading individuals to accept information that aligns with their hopes, even if it lacks factual support or is contradicted by evidence. This phenomenon can manifest in various aspects of life, from personal relationships and career aspirations to societal issues and political opinions.

The roots of önsketänkande can be found in psychological processes that seek to reduce cognitive dissonance and maintain a positive outlook. By focusing on desired outcomes, individuals may avoid confronting unpleasant realities or the anxiety associated with uncertainty. This can lead to a distorted view of the world, where probabilities are miscalculated, and risks are underestimated.

While a degree of hopefulness is natural and can be motivating, önsketänkande becomes problematic when it leads to poor decision-making, self-deception, and a failure to adapt to reality. It can hinder problem-solving by preventing objective analysis of a situation and the implementation of necessary, albeit difficult, actions. Recognizing önsketänkande in oneself and others is a crucial step towards more rational thought and effective engagement with the world. It encourages a reliance on evidence and critical assessment rather than mere personal preference.