How We Decide

302 pages, 2009

Jonah Lehrer

Takeaways

Description

Since Plato, philosophers have described the decision-making process as either rational or emotional: we carefully deliberate or “blink” and go with our gut. But as scientists break open the mind’s black box with the latest tools of neuroscience, they’re discovering that this is not how the mind works. Our best decisions are a finely tuned blend of both feeling and reasonâ, and the precise mix depends on the situation.

When buying a house, for example, it’s best to let our unconscious mull over the many variables. But when we’re picking a stock, intuition often leads us astray. The trick is to determine when to use the different parts of the brain; to do this, we need to think harder (and smarter) about how we think.

Jonah Lehrer arms us with the tools we need, drawing on cutting-edge research as well as the real-world experiences of a wide range of “deciders,” from airplane pilots and hedge fund investors to serial killers and poker players.

Lehrer shows how people are taking advantage of the new science to make better television shows, win more football games, and improve military intelligence. His goal is to answer two questions that are of interest to just about anyone, from CEOs to firefighters: How does the human mind make decisions? And how can we make those decisions better?

The Power of Emotions in Decision Making

In 'How We Decide', Jonah Lehrer explores the significant role emotions play in our decision-making process. He suggests that our feelings are not just random, but they are crucial signals that guide us when making choices. So, next time you're making a decision, don't ignore your gut feeling.

The Limitations of Logic

Lehrer's research in the book shows that relying solely on logic can sometimes lead us astray. He argues that our rational mind is not always the best judge, especially in complex situations. So, it's worth considering your emotions and instincts too.

The Importance of Understanding Our Brain

The book encourages us to dig deeper into understanding how our brain works. By doing so, we can make better decisions in our personal and professional lives. So, if you're curious about the science behind your choices, you should definitely check out 'How We Decide'.

The Balance Between Emotion and Reason

One of the key takeaways from 'How We Decide' is the need for a balance between emotion and reason. He suggests that the best decisions are made when we use both our feelings and our rational mind. So, it's not about choosing one over the other, but about finding the right mix.

The Role of Experience in Decision Making

Lehrer also explores the role of experience in our decision-making process. He finds that our past experiences can help us make better decisions in the future. So, don't be afraid to make mistakes, as they can be valuable learning experiences.

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Quotes 5

Lehrer's book is a fascinating exploration of the intersection between emotion and reason in our decision-making process. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the human mind.

Daniel Pink - Bestselling Author

Lehrer's 'How We Decide' is a compelling and insightful examination of the science behind our decisions. It's a book that will change the way you think about thinking.

Malcolm Gladwell - Journalist, Speaker

Lehrer's book is a masterful blend of neuroscience and storytelling, offering a captivating look at how our brains make choices. It's a book that will make you rethink your own decision-making process.

Maria Popova - Blogger, Critic

'How We Decide' is a riveting journey into the brain, exploring how we make decisions. Lehrer's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the science of decision-making.

David Brooks - Political Commentator

Lehrer's book is a fascinating exploration of the science behind our decisions. It's a book that will change the way you think about your own decision-making process.