What is proximity bias?
Proximity bias is an unconscious bias that influences people’s preferences and decision-making based on physical or psychological closeness. It is also known as nearness bias or propinquity effect.
This bias suggests that people, places, or things that are geographically or emotionally closer to them produce higher sentiments of trust, attraction, or familiarity. In a variety of circumstances, such as workplace interactions, social relationships, or shopping choices, proximity bias can cause people to favor solutions that are conveniently located or easily accessible, rather than objectively considering all available possibilities.
It can influence people’s competence judgments, employment decisions, and even how things are advertised and purchased. Being conscious of proximity bias is critical for making more balanced and fair decisions, as it encourages individuals to make decisions based on their immediate surroundings.
