Assumptions

TL;DR

• Mental shortcuts accepted without sufficient evidence that help people interpret new information.
• Often based on prior experience or knowledge and provide a framework for action.
• Can produce inaccurate conclusions, misunderstandings, or harm if they are false; they should be questioned regularly.

Definition

An assumption is a statement or belief that is accepted as true without sufficient evidence or proof. It is a supposition taken for granted without concrete evidence or confirmation. Assumptions are often based on previous experiences or knowledge and provide a framework for understanding new information.

Explanation

Assumptions let people make sense of unfamiliar situations by relying on prior knowledge or past experiences. They simplify perception and decision-making by filling gaps where evidence is incomplete. Because assumptions are accepted without adequate proof, they can be incorrect and may lead to errors in judgment, misunderstandings, discriminatory behavior, or other harmful outcomes. Being aware of and regularly questioning one’s assumptions helps reduce those risks and supports better-informed decisions.

Examples

Assuming a dog is friendly

When a person sees a dog, they may assume that the dog is friendly because they have had positive experiences with dogs in the past. This assumption allows them to approach the dog without fear and to interact with it in a manner that they feel is appropriate.

Assuming all snakes are venomous

If a person assumes that all snakes are venomous, they may act in a way that is overly cautious or even aggressive towards a harmless snake, causing unnecessary distress to both the snake and themselves.

Cultural or national stereotypes

The belief that all people from a certain country or culture share the same characteristics or beliefs is an assumption often based on stereotypes. For instance, if a person assumes that all Chinese people are good at math, they may have unrealistic expectations of a Chinese person’s math abilities, or make assumptions about the person’s interests and abilities based on that stereotype.

Assuming an investment will be profitable

If a person assumes that a certain investment will be profitable, they may decide to invest a large amount of money without fully considering the potential risks. This assumption could prove incorrect, resulting in significant financial losses.

Notes or pitfalls

• Assumptions can lead to inaccurate conclusions and may cause harm when based on false or incomplete information.
• They can produce misunderstandings, discrimination, and poor decisions (including financial loss).
• Regularly examining and questioning assumptions helps prevent potential harm and supports more effective decision-making.

Related terms

• Stereotypes
• Decision-making