Anchoring bias is the tendency to rely too heavily on the first piece of information encountered when making decisions. This “anchor” can strongly influence subsequent judgements, even if the initial information is irrelevant or inaccurate.
For example, imagine someone searching for a new dance instructor. They come across an advertisement for a class taught by a world-renowned dancer, but the price is very high. Later, they find other classes of similar quality at much lower prices. However, the high cost of the first class skews their perception, making them reluctant to choose the cheaper options. The initial price becomes an anchor, shaping their view of what dance classes should cost—even though it may not reflect the true value.
This bias also influences how we perceive different dance styles. Classical forms like ballet, ballroom, or Latin American dance are often more expensive than street dance or hip-hop. The assumption is that classical styles require more expertise and training to perform proficiently. However, one could argue that mastering street dance demands comparable levels of strength, skill, and discipline. Yet, because of long-standing societal bias, classical dance styles are often perceived as more prestigious, while street dance is undervalued by comparison.
To sum it up:
Anchoring bias can limit our ability to make fair assessments by locking us into initial impressions. Whether it’s pricing or perceptions of dance styles, it’s important to question whether the information anchoring our decisions is accurate or relevant. By recognising this bias, we can approach choices with greater flexibility and appreciate the value of all dance forms, regardless of their historical or societal labels.
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