cognitive dissonance

"Cognitive dissonance relates to the concept of being exposed to information or having experiences that conflict with our existing base of "what we know." The theory holds that our minds are not always flexible or rational when it comes to evaluating uncomfortable information or questioning our own beliefs.

The theory states that "dissonant cognitions" will cause us to dismiss or alter conflicting information or add justification to one side or the other--not necessarily rationally--in order to regain psychological balance. It's an important concept to consider in terms of the way people block things out, justify things to themselves or act irrationally. "

think about it