• Predictably Irrational

  • The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions
  • By: Dan Ariely
  • Narrated by: Simon Jones
  • Length: 7 hrs and 22 mins
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars (12,504 ratings)

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Predictably Irrational  By  cover art

Predictably Irrational

By: Dan Ariely
Narrated by: Simon Jones
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Publisher's summary

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

What listeners say about Predictably Irrational

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Very Insightful

I have always been interested in behavioral studies and this is very good. would recommend to others.

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Thoroughly enjoyable and accessible for non-econs

Dan Ariely is simply brilliant. However his intellect is accessible in this book that relates everyday events to theories of behavioral economics. Simon Jones doesn't always get it right, however, since his British accent seems juxtaposed to Ariely's Americanisms. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in behavioral economics - far better than the Great Courses book on the subject!

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Excellent primer on Behavioral Economics!

Filled with studies, stories, and examples, this book provides a glimpse into the field of Behavioral Economics and its value in everyday life. A great book and a must read!

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I'm sad it's over. There is still so much to learn

I'm sad it's over. There is still so much to learn!
Very curious and telling experiments! I'm so glad this got recommended to me! I've already examined my personal budget, my discount tendencies, my communication patterns, and I understand motivation so much better!
Thanks for these thoughtful insights!

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great start for Intellectual stimulation

good book. gives you unbiased views and opportunities to change your mind process and understand others thinking

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Good one.. quick and worthwhile.

Interesting perspective on human nature and why we do thinks contrary to what would be expected

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Insightful!

This book is exciting and full of knowledge delivered with simple explanative language and a beautiful sense of humor.

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Enlightening

One of the best books I have ever read.
Highly recommend. Enabling me to understand a lot of common yet puzzling human behavior.

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Thought Provoking!

“Predictably Irrational” by Dan Ariely challenges economic norms by exploring how irrational behavior often governs our decisions. Using engaging experiments, Ariely reveals the hidden influences shaping our choices. It’s a thought-provoking read that illuminates the complexities of human psychology in decision-making. Highly recommended for behavioral economics enthusiasts.

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Research based insightful exposition

Well performed with excellent materials presented clearly. Examples from real life and a great summation.

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