# 29. "We, the people" fallacy ## 29.5. Methodology/Refinements/Sub-species ### 29.5.4. False-consensus effect This is the tendency of a person or group to overestimate how much other people agree with them. This can be a deliberate attitude or it can be the result of a failure to properly understand the range of views of the general population. There is a tendency for people to assume that their own opinions, beliefs, preferences, values and habits are "normal" and shared by everyone in society. This attitude tends to lead to the idea of a consensus that does not actually exist, a 'false consensus'. This false consensus is significant because it increases the self-esteem of the individual. In organised groups, such as political parties, government and corporate organisations, the effect is often promoted internally to maintain group morale and self-esteem. It is also protected externally to bolster the illusion of an organisation having wide-ranging public support. This "fake consensus" is seen to have a positive impact in creating and maintaining real support and real consensus. ***Parent:** [["We, The People" Fallacy]]*