His research, largely done with college students and frequently involving small payoffs, provides interesting insight on decision-making and our efforts to be ‘logical.’ While his analysis of larger social issues is usually interesting, his efforts to tie the social and political commentary to his research a significant s-t-r-e-t-c-h. I’ve started to think of the genre as Social Science Lite, essentially an opportunity for an author to weigh in on choice issues, appearing authoritative by tying it to various studies (current king of the genre is undisputedly Malcolm Gladwell). The basis of the book is a number of studies Ariely has authored or co-authored, and his subsequent application of the results to various social issues. While I love stretching my science muscles, it isn’t my first choice for enjoyment reading material, especially during the school year.ĭespite initial enthusiasm, I find I remain ambivalent about Predictably Irrational. First, major shout-out to Carly for inspiring me to read this one.
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