ELI5: baader-meinhof phenomenon

// eli5

What is the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon?

The Baader-Meinhof phenomenon is when you learn about something new and suddenly see it everywhere [1][2]. It's like when you learn a new word and then hear people say it all the time—but it was probably always there, you just didn't notice it before [5].

Why does it happen?

Your brain is really good at noticing things it's paying attention to [3]. Once you learn about something, your brain starts looking for it automatically, kind of like when you get a new toy and suddenly see that toy everywhere at the store [2].

What does it feel like?

It feels like the world is full of that one thing you just learned about [4]. You might think it's magical or weird, but really your brain is just being extra alert to spot it [3].

How do you stop it?

You can't really stop it—it's just how your brain works [1]. The good news is once you stop focusing on that thing, you'll stop noticing it as much [2].