EffectEgocentric Bias · Entry 40
Third-Person Effect – when you think media influences others, but not you
Do you believe that advertising, propaganda, or news influence others, but not you? That’s Third-Person Effect – the tendency to think mass media shapes other people’s opinions while leaving your own perception untouched.
Where it can show up
- Advertising – you think ads manipulate ‘ordinary people,’ but you still choose brands you’ve seen more often.
- News – you assume propaganda affects the masses, but your views are also shaped by the media you consume.
- Social media – you’re sure algorithms mislead others, yet don’t realize how they reinforce your own biases.
A practical countermeasure
- Acknowledge that you’re also influenced – no one is completely immune to media effects.
- Be mindful of your choices – why do you prefer one brand over another? Is it really your decision?
- Check your sources and filters – algorithms and media influence everyone, including you.
