What can our snap judgments and first impressions be described as?

The concept of snap judgments and first impressions is best described as instinctive and immediate. These assessments occur quickly and often automatically, influenced by our previous experiences, biases, and subconscious processing. While they can sometimes reflect our instincts based on past encounters, these judgments are often made before we've had the chance to analyze the situation thoroughly.

In contrast, the choice of educated and controlled suggests a level of deliberation and conscious thought that does not align with the nature of snap judgments. Typically, when we make such rapid assessments, they are not the result of careful consideration or information gathering; they happen in the heat of the moment.

Overall, understanding that our initial impressions are instinctive and immediate allows us to acknowledge the potential for bias and error, prompting us to approach situations with greater awareness and openness.