Indeed. It is common for people to seek input on contentious issues from their family, friends, colleagues, neighbours, etc. But often the people we associate with have similar views on these issues, which reinforces confirmation bias. If Jon had asked strangers or people he knew would have had contrary opinions, the responses he got may have contradicted or opposed his views. This kind of thing is done even in academia, where researchers are very selective on who and where they seek information from for fear of finding out they are wrong.
Indeed. It is common for people to seek input on contentious issues from their family, friends, colleagues, neighbours, etc. But often the people we associate with have similar views on these issues, which reinforces confirmation bias. If Jon had asked strangers or people he knew would have had contrary opinions, the responses he got may have contradicted or opposed his views. This kind of thing is done even in academia, where researchers are very selective on who and where they seek information from for fear of finding out they are wrong.