original_query: What is the cognitive miser theory and how does it relate to attitude formation?
query: What is the cognitive miser theory and how does it relate to attitude formation?
answer: The cognitive miser theory proposes that humans use mental shortcuts (heuristics) to simplify complex decisions, conserving cognitive resources.  Regarding attitude formation, this means people don't always engage in in-depth analysis of information but rely on cues, pre-existing beliefs, and how information is framed to form attitudes, especially on complex or unfamiliar topics.  Effective communication leverages these shortcuts.