7 October 2024
In an era of hyperconnectivity, where information is available almost unlimitedly, the challenge of the thought bubble is becoming ever more pressing. Thought bubbles are not just a theory, they are a reality. They influence the way we think, act and interact with each other. These bubbles, which consist of self-reinforcing information filters, threaten the diversity of thought and pose a serious danger to understanding and social cohesion.
However, such thought bubbles exist not only in the political environment (which I deliberately want to exclude here), but also in the corporate context. A certain point of view, a certain narrative, is put in the foreground and contradictory information is ignored. Some of these bubbles are cross-departmental, others exist in limited parts of the company. As a consultant, it is not uncommon to see, for example, product development living in a bubble of rosy utopia, while accounting languishes in an apocalyptic dystopia.
Causes
A mental bubble arises when people move in a limited ideological or social environment that only confirms and reinforces their beliefs, views and information. These bubbles can arise from various factors. Be it the choice of media we follow, the type of discussions we participate in or even the people we interact with. (Social media, which is based on personalized algorithms, tends to show content that corresponds to our views, which leads to increased bubble formation.)
It is not uncommon for these bubbles to form in the environment of a dominant thought leader. Such a thought leader is only recognized by those who reinforce his perception and support the spread of his narrative. Such thought leaders can be managers, but also recognized knowledge carriers who are considered to have outstanding competence.
Dangers and consequences
The danger of a thought bubble lies in limiting the diversity of thoughts. By cutting people off from different perspectives, it prevents open and constructive discourse. These bubbles not only reinforce existing views, but can also lead to a lack of empathy and understanding for individuals who think differently. When people only stay in environments that reflect their opinions, the ability to understand and accept other points of view is significantly impaired. A lack of contradiction is a dangerous place.
The ability to listen and reflect on the opinion of others is increasingly lost. It is becoming more and more common to observe that even on trivial topics, one’s own point of view is seen as the morally superior one and constructive discourse is not possible.
The consequences of a thought bubble extend beyond the individual and affect the organization as a whole. Divided views and a lack of understanding lead to increased potential for conflict and the organization’s ability to find collective solutions to common problems is seriously compromised. Cooperative processes also suffer when employees only operate in limited information environments and are therefore unable to solve problems together with those who think differently. This makes it difficult to make informed decisions.
Countermeasures
Dealing with thought bubbles requires conscious effort on an individual and organizational level. On a personal level, this means actively engaging with different perspectives and information, even if they contradict one’s own beliefs. It requires a willingness to break out of one’s comfort zone and appreciate the diversity of thoughts and views. Developing critical thinking skills and checking sources can help avoid just living in a bubble of confirmation.
At an organizational level, promoting diversity and freedom of expression must be prioritized. Open discussions in which different opinions are respected and heard are crucial