We pay to consume our beliefs.
Yet, why do we need more confirmation and novel arguments or insights if we already believe? So we are prepared when the slidey sideways belief shifts its stance. When our belief bucks, we can rebut or run.
Your beliefs: it’s like watching the weather and preparing yourself for the flash flood from the blue sky; not only is keeping a keen eye on the sky good for your social alignment, but you also catch your own party adrift.
So, we pay not only for affirmation, but also for a really wonky weather gauge to protect us from our beliefs rogue waves.