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Predictably Irrational

The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions

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Predictably Irrational

Written by: Dan Ariely
Narrated by: Simon Jones
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About this listen

Why do our headaches persist after taking a one-cent aspirin but disappear when we take a 50-cent aspirin? Why does recalling the 10 Commandments reduce our tendency to lie, even when we couldn't possibly be caught? Why do we splurge on a lavish meal but cut coupons to save 25 cents on a can of soup? Why do we go back for second helpings at the unlimited buffet, even when our stomachs are already full? And how did we ever start spending $4.15 on a cup of coffee when, just a few years ago, we used to pay less than a dollar?

When it comes to making decisions in our lives, we think we're in control. We think we're making smart, rational choices. But are we? In a series of illuminating, often surprising experiments, MIT behavioral economist Dan Ariely refutes the common assumption that we behave in fundamentally rational ways. Blending everyday experience with groundbreaking research, Ariely explains how expectations, emotions, social norms, and other invisible, seemingly illogical forces skew our reasoning abilities.

Not only do we make astonishingly simple mistakes every day, but we make the same types of mistakes, Ariely discovers. We consistently overpay, underestimate, and procrastinate. We fail to understand the profound effects of our emotions on what we want, and we overvalue what we already own. Yet these misguided behaviors are neither random nor senseless. They're systematic and predictable - making us predictably irrational.

From drinking coffee to losing weight, from buying a car to choosing a romantic partner, Ariely explains how to break through these systematic patterns of thought to make better decisions. Predictably Irrational will change the way we interact with the world - one small decision at a time.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2008 Dan Ariely (P)2008 HarperCollins Publishers
Economics Psychology Social Sciences Sociology Business Physical Exercise Behavioral Psychology Behavioral Finance
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What listeners say about Predictably Irrational

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Everyone should read this book at least once

This book was my first step into non fiction reading and it absolutely blew me away. The author writes in a way that is so captivating and entertaining. The studies that he conducted and discussed in this book are fascinating. This book has me thinking about the decisions I have and will make, what motivates them, and what in my psyche is holding me back. 10/10 recommend everyone read this at least once in their life.

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"Behavioural Economics"

It is a great book for entrepreneurs and anyone who wants to understand more about themselves and others.

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I liked this book, but feel it's a little preachy

Great book, but like any book that tries to capture the human spirit, it excites in some ways and falls short in others.

The studies are all interesting and the topics are well-discussed, but I can't help but think Dan misses the point on some of his postulations. I really did enjoy this book, there's just something holding me back from giving it the 5 stars.

Maybe it's irrational, but that's a risk I'm willing to take after reading this book.

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Brilliant

The book has been a game-changer for me as an Ed-tech startup owner. The book dives deep into the hidden forces that shape our decisions, revealing how irrational behaviors can be systematically predicted and even leveraged in business. Understanding these psychological triggers has helped me design more engaging and effective educational products, tailoring them to how people actually think rather than how they should think. Ariely’s research-driven insights have been instrumental in refining our strategies for user engagement and retention, making it a crucial read for anyone in the tech or education sectors.

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Excellent and enlightening

A great perspective on behavior delivered in a light and easily understood way. Delivered with implications on our daily lives and with a wink to policy makers. You doesn’t need to be a scientist to appreciate and enjoy this book.

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the psychology of choice

Dive into a fascinating investigation of why we choose. Some of the answers are sure to surprise you.

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One of my favourite books

This is hands down one of my favourite books on earth. I've gone through it 3 times now, and always learn something new. If human psychology interests you even a little, this is a fantastic read. I took down notes last time, and will be trying some of Dan Ariely's other work in the near future.

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Great book!!!

This is one of those must read, for anyone interested in the human behavior field.

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This is a must-read for skeptics and everyone else

Why we do what we do is mysterious. Dan Ariely explains some of it with a dry wit and a wicked sense of humour. I would read anything he writes.

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good mind shift

interesting, provides alot to think through and to rationalize some of the bizarre thoughts and actions we as a society engage in

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