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High Impact
Algorithm: High
Probability Assessment
Base Rate Fallacy
"Statistics are for other people. This specific case is obviously different."
What is Base Rate Fallacy?

Ignoring statistical base rates in favor of individuating information. Personal anecdotes always trump data.

Real-World Impact

Leads to poor risk assessment, medical misdiagnosis, and explains why personal stories trump statistical evidence.

Fun Fact

This fallacy explains why people buy lottery tickets but don't buy insurance, and why medical students diagnose rare diseases.

Random Insight

"Breaking news: Local human discovers they're not as rational as they thought. Water is wet."