- The illusion of explanatory depth (IOED) is the tendency to overestimate how well we understand how things work.
- This illusion is revealed when we try to explain a concept, realizing our knowledge is much shallower than assumed.
- Common everyday examples include devices like toilets, locks, car engines, and light bulbs.
- The illusion has two parts: the belief that we can provide a clear explanation, and the assumption that the explanation will be thorough.
- It is especially strong for explanatory knowledge compared to facts or procedures, and it affects people from childhood onward.