Which theoretical framework best explains how users selectively filter information based on pre-existing beliefs?

Confirmation bias within cognitive psychology best explains how users selectively filter information based on pre-existing beliefs. Confirmation bias is the tendency to favor information that confirms existing beliefs or hypotheses. People exhibit this bias when they gather or remember information selectively, or when they interpret it in a biased way. This effect is stronger for emotionally charged issues and for deeply entrenched beliefs. For example, someone who strongly believes in a particular political ideology will likely seek out news sources and articles that support their viewpoint, while avoiding or dismissing information that contradicts it. This selective exposure reinforces their existing beliefs, creating an echo chamber. In the context of the attention economy, algorithms can inadvertently amplify confirmation bias by showing users content tailored to their past preferences, further solidifying their existing beliefs and limiting exposure to diverse perspectives. This selective filtering process can lead to polarization and hinder critical thinking.