Choice architecture is a concept that explores how the presentation and organization of choices influence decision-making. By thoughtfully designing the context in which choices are made, choice architects can guide individuals toward more beneficial behaviors without restricting their freedom to choose. This approach has profound implications across various domains, from public policy to personal habits….
The Invisible Gorilla is a groundbreaking book that explores how our intuitions about the mind often deceive us. Written by cognitive psychologists Christopher Chabris and Daniel Simons, the book is based on their famous experiment in which participants, focused on counting basketball passes, fail to notice a person in a gorilla suit walking through the…
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a renowned self-help book that presents a principle-centered approach for solving personal and professional challenges. Stephen Covey’s book emphasizes developing character ethics over personality ethics and introduces a paradigm shift in how we perceive and act in the world. Habit 1: Be Proactive Key Learning: Proactivity means…
In Predictably Irrational, Dan Ariely challenges the classical economic notion that humans always make rational decisions. Instead, he demonstrates through experiments that our choices are often systematically biased and irrational. However, these irrational behaviors are predictable, meaning they follow consistent patterns. By understanding these tendencies, we can make better decisions in business, relationships, and daily…
History is often perceived as a linear sequence of events, bound by facts and evidence. However, an intriguing field of study, known as Alternative History or Counterfactual History, dares to explore the “what-ifs” of the past. What if Hitler had won World War II? What if the American Revolution had failed? These speculative questions invite…
Have you ever walked into an air-conditioned room after being in the scorching sun and felt like it was freezing? Or tasted a mildly sweet dessert after something extremely sugary and found it bland? These experiences are examples of the contrast effect, a psychological phenomenon that impacts our perception by exaggerating differences between two consecutive…
Humans like to see themselves as rational beings who make logical decisions based on facts and reasoning. However, psychology tells us otherwise. Our decisions are often influenced by cognitive biases—mental shortcuts that can sometimes lead us astray. One of the most powerful biases affecting human behavior is the Commitment & Consistency Bias. This bias explains…
Human cognition is a fascinating yet flawed system. Our brains are wired to process immense amounts of information, but this efficiency sometimes comes at the cost of accuracy. One of the most common cognitive biases that influence our thinking is confirmation bias. This psychological tendency affects how we gather, interpret, and remember information, often leading…
Ever walked through the bustling lanes of Sarojini Nagar in Delhi or Colaba Causeway in Mumbai, trying to strike a bargain? You see a stunning leather bag, and the shopkeeper says, “Madam, bas ₹5,000!” You scoff, shake your head, and after a dramatic negotiation, you walk away with it for ₹2,500—thinking you’ve bagged a steal….