Which term describes a situation where one assumes the outcome of an event due to hope rather than evidence?

The appropriate term for a situation where one assumes the outcome of an event based on hope rather than on concrete evidence is wishful thinking. This type of reasoning involves holding onto beliefs or expectations because one desires a certain outcome, rather than relying on factual analysis or realistic assessments of the situation.

Wishful thinking can lead to overoptimism about future events, as it prioritizes personal desires over objective reality, often resulting in decisions or beliefs that may not be founded in logic or evidence. Understanding this concept is important as it highlights the potential pitfalls of allowing emotions and hopes to shape one's expectations, especially in decision-making processes. The other terms do not encapsulate this meaning effectively, as they either refer to different cognitive biases or reasoning styles that do not specifically involve the element of hope driving assumptions.