Psychology

Reactive devaluation is a pervasive yet often overlooked cognitive bias where individuals devalue proposals simply because they come from an antagonist or perceived opponent. This psychological phenomenon, first identified by Lee Ross and Constance Stillinger in 1988, reveals how our judgments and decision-making processes can be subtly yet significantly influenced by the source of information, […]

Proportionality Bias, or the tendency to believe big events have big causes, reflects a fundamental aspect of human cognition. This bias shapes our understanding of the world, often leading us to accept conspiracy theories or overlook the role of randomness in our lives. Exploring this cognitive bias unveils how our minds work to create a

The overjustification effect represents a fascinating paradox within the realm of psychology, suggesting that external incentives like money or prizes can actually diminish our intrinsic motivation to undertake a task. This article delves deep into the mechanics of motivation, distinguishes between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, and examines how external rewards can sometimes lead to a

Naive Cynicism, a psychological concept and a form of cognitive bias, prompts us to expect others to have more self-serving biases than they actually do. This article delves into the intricacies of naive cynicism, unveiling its impact on personal relationships, negotiations, and societal views. By understanding its roots and manifestations, we can navigate our world

The Moral Credential Effect, a fascinating concept within social psychology, sheds light on how past good deeds can inadvertently license future unethical behavior. This phenomenon argues that individuals who have previously established themselves as morally sound are more likely to engage in less equitable decisions later on. Our article delves into the mechanisms, examples, and

The principle of ‘Less is More’ serves as a beacon for simplicity and clarity in various domains of life, including art, architecture, lifestyle, and design. This article delves into the essence and roots of this minimalist mantra, tracing its influence from historical philosophies to its application in contemporary design and lifestyle choices. Discover how embracing

In our fast-paced world, individuals constantly face choices that test their patience, time management skills, and decision-making capabilities. The “Hassle Factor” encompasses the frustration and exhaustion that arise from navigating these daily decisions, from trivial choices to significant life changes. This article delves deep into understanding the psychological, strategic, and economic underpinnings of the hassle

Focalism, often interlinked with the anchoring effect, shapes our perceptions and decisions in profound ways. This psychological phenomenon influences individuals by fixing their attention on specific information while overlooking other relevant data. By exploring focalism in-depth, we uncover how it orchestrates our judgments, navigates our choices, and crafts our reality, marking its significance in both

Depressive Realism posits a fascinating hypothesis: individuals experiencing depression may have a more accurate perception of reality than those who are non-depressed. This theory, developed by Lauren Alloy and Lyn Yvonne Abramson, challenges the traditional view of depression as merely a cloud of negative bias, suggesting that it could instead offer a clearer lens on

Affective Forecasting delves into our ability to predict our future emotions, a process that significantly impacts our decision-making and overall well-being. This psychological phenomenon, explored by both economists and psychologists, reveals our frequent misjudgments about future happiness or distress, influencing everything from personal goals to policy-making. The Foundations of Affective Forecasting The exploration of affective