Stolen from internet so thanks to the writer Cognitive Dissonance: A Crash Course Chances are good that you’re heard of cognitive dissonance theory , but how well do you know the ins and outs of it? It’s an element of psychology that’s made its way into popular vocabulary, although many people use the term without understanding the psychological nuances. Since Leon Festinger’s landmark book in 1957, there have been a ton of studies examining and clarifying the power of dissonance. So let’s get into it! My job today is to demystify cognitive dissonance and bring clarity to what might be an otherwise murky psychological phenomenon. By the end of this, you’ll have a better sense of what dissonance is and what effects it produces. Even more, you’ll know more about why and when it works the way it does. What is Cognitive Dissonance Theory? The key behind dissonance is inconsistency . When you hold two thoughts that are...