What is the Fundamental Attribution Error?

The Fundamental Attribution Error refers to the common tendency for people to underestimate the influence of situational factors on an individual's behavior while simultaneously overestimating the role of personal traits or dispositions. This means that when observing someone else's actions, individuals are more likely to attribute those actions to the person's character or personality rather than considering external circumstances that might have influenced them.

For instance, if someone is late to a meeting, one might think they are irresponsible (a personal disposition), rather than considering external factors like traffic or a personal emergency (situational factors). This bias can lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments about others' behaviors, as it simplifies the complex nature of human actions by focusing primarily on intrinsic qualities. Understanding this error is crucial in fostering empathy and a more nuanced perspective on human interactions.