Belief refers to the cognitive component of attitude, and it forms the ground on which attitudes stand. Beliefs are the thoughts, ideas, and convictions that individuals hold about a particular object, person, or situation. They are formed based on personal experiences, information, and social influences.

Beliefs play a crucial role in shaping attitudes because they provide the foundation upon which attitudes are built. Attitudes are a combination of beliefs, emotions, and behaviors that influence how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them. Beliefs serve as the cognitive framework that supports and guides attitudes.

Beliefs can be categorized into two types: descriptive beliefs and evaluative beliefs. Descriptive beliefs refer to the factual information that individuals hold about an object or situation. These beliefs are based on observations, evidence, and personal experiences. For example, if someone believes that exercise is good for health because they have read scientific studies supporting this claim, it would be a descriptive belief.

Evaluative beliefs, on the other hand, involve value judgments and reflect an individual's evaluation or opinion about an object or situation. These beliefs are more subjective and can vary from person to person. For instance, if someone believes that exercise is enjoyable and fulfilling, it would be an evaluative belief.

Beliefs can also be influenced by various factors, such as culture, upbringing, social norms, and personal values. They can be deeply ingrained and resistant to change, but they can also be modified or altered through new information, experiences, and persuasive communication.

In summary, beliefs are the cognitive component of attitude and provide the foundation on which attitudes are built. They encompass both descriptive and evaluative beliefs and play a crucial role in shaping individuals' perceptions, emotions, and behaviors towards objects, people, and situations.