In this work, Michael Shermer synthesizes 30 years of research to explain his theory of . He argues that our brains are essentially "belief engines" that form beliefs first and then look for evidence to justify them afterward.

You can find the and other digital versions of this book through several official retailers and digital libraries:

For a free digital loan, the Internet Archive hosts a version for "print-disabled" users or through their controlled digital lending program.

The tendency to find meaningful patterns in both meaningful and meaningless noise (e.g., seeing a face in a cloud or a divine sign in a coincidence).

The tendency to infuse these patterns with meaning, intention, and agency (e.g., believing a spirit or a "hidden hand" caused an event).

The book is available for purchase on platforms like Amazon (Kindle), eBooks.com , and Google Play Books .