Psychology
Cognitive Biases Affecting Climate Risk Perception in Coastal Communities
Quick fact
Scientists have found that coastal property owners often believe their own property will face less harm from climate change than comparable property two to three miles away—illustrating a powerful optimism bias that defies the objective data.
Why this is interesting
You might assume that people living on coastlines are constantly bracing for the next big storm—but research shows the opposite. Why do so many residents remain calmly optimistic in the face of rising seas and surging waves?