Definition
An alternative may be chosen only because it was used before.
Classification reasoning
Habit by definition refers to an acquired behavior which is developed through knowledge gathered from different experiences.
Example
: Selection between AWS and Google Cloud for hosting a web application: AWS and Google Cloud are both good solutions for hosting a web application. In comparison to Google Cloud, AWS has been around for a longer period with more people are familiar with it. Given a scenario where a new web application is to be hosted, from habit a person with experience with AWS would prefer to use it again.
Impact
While AWS has the advantage from having been around for a long time, Google Cloud is better suited in certain areas such as for big data applications. Making a decision simply because it was used before does not result in the better choice.
Debiasing techniques
Making a list of advantages and disadvantages of alternatives is always helpful to compare. Inputs from people who have prior experience is always an advantage as they possess firsthand information from having used it.
Related biases
- Law of instrument
- Mere exposure effect