Predictably Irrational
Dan Ariely
HarperCollins
Nonfiction, Human Psychology
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DESCRIPTION: Human beings, despite what the poets say, are imperfect and irrational beings. We jump at the word “Free!” even when a simple pause for calculation
reveals the hidden costs. We waste time, effort, emotion, and money keeping options open in our lives that no longer serve us. We respond to placebos exactly as we respond
to actual medication or treatment. We do things in the heat of the moment which, with a cool head, we’d never imagine ourselves capable of. We justify and rationalize and
deliberately turn a blind eye to our own behavior, even when it harms others and ourselves. But why?
The author, a professor at MIT, has spent years studying how good, well-intentioned and intelligent people can repeatedly and consistently make poor choices… and how a
little awareness can help dramatically.
REVIEW: This is one of those books explaining something most of us know intuitively, but never took seriously. “Of course,” you say,”we all do stupid things, but does it matter?” Yes, Ariely argues, it most certainly does, especially when so many institutions are set up on unrealistic models of human behavior, assuming that, given the choice, people always take the most cost-effective and beneficial choice despite temporary irrational impulses. He isn’t justifying outlandish or crudely deviant behavior, but pointing out – through studies clearly explained and outlined – how even “everyday” irrationality is both commonplace and costly. Despite the very real damages and dangers, demonstrated time and again in study after study, surprisingly people take this well-known aspect of human behavior into consideration when making policies or laws, or even designing education courses. It makes for interesting reading.
You might also enjoy:
Hey Idiot!: Chronicles of Human Stupidity (Leland Gregory, Nonfiction - Stupid human behavior and dumb laws)
The Darwin Awards (Wendy Northcut, Nonfiction/Fiction - Real and urban legend illustrations of irrational behavior)
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