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Agent detection is the cognitive bias whereby individuals assume the presence of an intelligent agent in various situations, even when there is no clear evidence of one. This bias likely developed as an evolutionary survival strategy to help early humans assess threats from predators or enemies, thus enhancing their chances of survival by erring on the side of caution.
Example
An example of agent detection can be seen when a person hears a rustling sound in the bushes and immediately assumes that a lion or an enemy is nearby, even if it may just be the wind or a harmless animal.
How to overcome this bias
To overcome agent detection bias, practice critical thinking and seek evidence before jumping to conclusions about the presence of agents or intentionality behind events.