ABSTRACT
This chapter explains how information is gathered through six systems of evidence, and how information presented in these systems can potentially interact with each other. It categorizes the six systems of evidence into three general categories: supernatural, evidence based, and influence of others. Religion is one of the dominant systems of evidence and social institutions throughout modern history. Worldviews espoused can be supported or contradicted by information derived through the systems of evidence. Whereas scientists may view science as more objective, rational, and systematic than other systems of evidence, some humans do not share this view. The theory of cognitive consonance and dissonance is important in understanding how people interpret information and deal with a variety of belief systems and information evaluation tools. Another way of looking at how humans make sense of living in a complex world is schema theory. Schemas are used to select information that is consistent with our worldviews and reinforced through cognitive consonance and dissonance.
