The Illusion of Objectivity It’s cute how we think we’re objective beings. We tell ourselves we’re clear-headed, logical creatures floating in a reality governed by science and facts. Yet, even a toddler’s perception of a bedtime monster will prove otherwise. So, if you think you’re impervious to bias, think again. Culture, experience, and cognition practically craft what we call reality. We’re molded by these factors, and every belief you hold is part of that package. Culture – The Puppet Master Consider culture, this colossal puppeteer of perception. Culture tells you what’s valuable, what’s worthless, and, most generously, what’s true. We adopt these norms, rarely stopping to ask, “Are these my beliefs or just an echo of everyone else’s?” It’s not as if these beliefs are self-chosen; they're embedded like software updates. By adulthood, you’ve passively absorbed thousands of cultural scripts. Your views on success, love, politics? They’re pre-scripted stories passed down, courte