What is the "just world hypothesis"?

The just world hypothesis refers to the cognitive bias that leads people to believe that individuals generally get what they deserve in life, implying that the world is fair and just. This belief suggests that good actions lead to positive outcomes, while negative actions lead to negative outcomes. It serves as a psychological mechanism that allows individuals to rationalize injustices and suffering experienced by others, reinforcing their understanding of the world as orderly and controllable.

This bias can influence social judgments and moral reasoning, as individuals may view victims of misfortune as deserving of their plight, attributing their hardships to personal failings rather than recognizing external circumstances. The just world hypothesis provides a sense of security, allowing people to maintain their belief in a fair system, even in the face of evidence to the contrary.

Other options do not accurately convey the essence of the just world hypothesis. For example, the belief in chaos contradicts the notion of a fair world, while the idea that external factors dictate outcomes challenges the fundamental principle of the just world hypothesis that personal responsibility plays a role in outcomes. The concept that good deeds will always be rewarded is also an oversimplification and does not capture the broader implications of people's perceptions regarding justice in the world.