Using Associative Memory to Confirm Evidence

Psychologist daniel gilbert proposed that understanding a statement must begin with an attempt to believe it. You must first know what the idea would mean if it were true, he said. Only then can you decide whether or not to unbelieve it. The initial attempt to believe is an automatic operation of system one which involves construction of best possible interpretation of situation. Even a nonsensical statement will evoke initial belief - try his example, whitefish eat candy. System too is in charge of doubting and unbelieving; but system too is sometimes busy and often lazy. People are more likely to be influenced by empty, persuasive messages, such as commercials, when they are tired and depleted.