Belief Formation in the Social Context: A Bayesian Decision Account

A recent computational model argues that people’s beliefs arise from two basic sources: a motivation to be accurate plus other forms of such as pursuing economic interests. Yet, this previous proposal has focused exclusively on the individual level analysis, neglecting question how social contexts shape belief formation. The present paper addresses by examining group dynamics underpin formation beliefs. argument is different groups vary in their because, at least some degree, each acquires life experiences and motivated incentives. At same time, can influence groups’ three ways: expressing opinions groups, affecting acquired setting incentives for groups. This picture suggests that, within community, types often identified: (a) dominant defined those particularly capable incentives; (b) intellectual regarded whose are influential; (c) subaltern encompassing people with minimal power affect others. By among these investigates consensus or disagreement emerge community. Altogether, offers insight interaction between psychological mechanisms contribute