Attribution error, a cognitive bias, influences how individuals perceive the actions of others based on their relationship. When friends or allies do something bad, it is often explained by situational factors, such as a bad day. However, when enemies or adversaries do something negative, it is attributed to their essential character. Conversely, when enemies do good deeds, they are not given credit for their character, whereas friends are praised for their positive actions. This bias, known as attribution error, is pervasive in society and impacts how individuals interpret the behavior of others.
Journalist and author Robert Wright invited EconTalk's Russ Roberts to his podcast, NonZero, to discuss the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, knowing that there would be plenty to disagree about. The two then agreed to release their back-and-forth on their respective podcasts. The result is a lively but respectful discussion that is more debate than the usual EconTalk episode. We hope there will still be much to learn from this slightly more combative than usual episode.