Why Is Belief in a Just World a Self-Serving Belief

question 107

Multiple Choice

Why is belief in a just world a self-serving belief?

• A)We can convince ourselves that we are safe from misfortunes.
• B)We can explain away our past mistakes.
• C)We can help avoid future misfortunes.
• D)We can convince ourselves that we are superior.
• E)We can avoid blame for factors beyond our control.

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Definitions:

Competent

Having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skill to do something successfully or efficiently.

William McDougall

A psychologist known for his work on social psychology and introducing the concept of the "group mind" and the theory of instincts.

Human Instincts

Innate, biologically determined and genetically programmed behaviors that are essential for the survival and reproduction of humans.

Motivational Processes

The procedures, mechanisms, or sequences of events that lead to motivated behavior, including the initiation, direction, intensity, and persistence of actions.