HarperCollins Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces that Shape Our Decisions by Dan Ariely

Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces that Shape Our Decisions is written by behavioural economist Dan Ariely. This book explores why people often make illogical choices, drawing on everyday situations and experiments.

Key details

• Author: Dan Ariely
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Full title: Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces that Shape Our Decisions
• Focus on decision-making and irrational behaviour

Synopsis

Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces that Shape Our Decisions examines why smart people can still make irrational decisions, and how expectations and context can shape what we think and choose. It considers questions around perceived value, such as why a higher-priced item may seem more effective, and why “free” can feel like an automatic bargain.

Ariely combines familiar experiences with a series of experiments to show how irrationality can replace rational thought, and argues that these tendencies are rooted in the structure of our minds. By recognising recurring patterns in behaviour, the book suggests ways to make better decisions in business, collective welfare and everyday life.