The illusion of explanatory depth (IOED) is a cognitive bias where people believe they have a better understanding of complex topics than they actually do. This effect, coined by researchers Leonid Rozenblit and Frank Keil in 2002, specifically pertains to explanatory knowledge—knowledge about complex causal patterns. It has been observed in various contexts, particularly in relation to mechanical devices, mental disorders, natural phenomena, and political discourse, often leading to political polarization.
In a study by Rozenblit and Keil, participants rated their understanding of everyday devices, but after attempting to explain how they worked, their ratings decreased, indicating they realized their lack of understanding.
To mitigate IOED, encourage individuals to explain topics in detail rather than simply justifying their beliefs. This can help them recognize gaps in their knowledge.