Daniel Kahnemen's human decision-making
by Matthew Boniface · 18 things on NewTwos
- Source - Ole Lehmann
- Question 1: Am I thinking fast or slow?
- Kahneman's not impressed by your lightning-fast decisions.
Why? Because your brain has two systems:
• Fast: Intuitive, emotional, unconscious
• Slow: Analytical, logical, conscious
Guess which one Kahneman trusts for big decisions?
Think about it: You're offered a new job. Exciting, right?
Fast thinking says: "Take it! More money!"
Slow thinking asks: "How does this align with my long-term goals?"
This question is your brake pedal in a world of snap judgments.
- Question 2: Am I too stressed to think clearly?
- Stress is kryptonite for your decision-making superpowers.
This question is your stress detector.
Why it matters:
• Stress narrows your focus (hello, tunnel vision)
• It amplifies negative emotions
• It makes you more likely to take unnecessary risks
So before a big decision, check your stress levels.
Heart racing? Palms sweaty? Mind spinning?
Pause.
This question is like a mental health check for your choices.
It's the difference between a panic move & a power move.
- Question 3: Is this a reversible decision?
- Kahneman wants you to know your exit strategy before you even enter.
This question is your decision flexibility test.
Some choices are set in stone.
Others are written in pencil.
Knowing which is which changes everything.
Buying a house? Pretty irreversible.
Trying a new hairstyle? Totally reversible.
This question helps you:
• Allocate the right amount of mental energy
• Take calculated risks
• Avoid decision paralysis
It's like having a safety net for your choices.
- Question 4: What would you think about this if it were someone else's decision?
- This isn't just a thought experiment. It's a superpower.
Here's why Kahneman loves this question...
Our brains are wired with an "inside view" - we're too close to our own choices.
But imagine your best friend facing the same dilemma.
Suddenly, you're a genius of objectivity.
For example:
You're considering quitting your job to start a business.
Risky, right?
Now imagine your friend wants to do the same.
You'd probably ask about their savings, market research, and backup plan.
See the difference?
This question turns your emotional decision into a logical analysis.
It's like having a personal board of directors in your head.
- Question 5: What would I think about this a year from now?
- Kahneman knows our brains are time-traveling fools.
We overvalue the present and underestimate the future.
This question is your time machine.
Think about it:
Remember that "urgent" work crisis from last year?
Yeah, neither does anyone else.
But that small investment you made? It's grown into something beautiful.
This question helps you see the forest, not just the trees.
It's your shield against short-term thinking and knee-jerk reactions.
- Question 6: What would I advise a friend to do in this situation?
- Kahneman knows you're smarter than you think... when it comes to other people's problems.
This question taps into that hidden wisdom.
Why?
1. You're emotionally detached
2. You want the best for your friends
3. You see their blind spots
Imagine your friend is considering a major career change.
What advice would you give?
Now apply that sage wisdom to yourself.
Boom. You just became your own best advisor.
- Question 7: What's the quality of the evidence?
- Kahneman doesn't trust your "trustworthy" sources.
He wants you to put on your detective hat and investigate.
Ask yourself:
1. Where did this information come from?
2. Is it peer-reviewed or just someone's opinion?
3. Are there conflicting studies or viewpoints?
For example:
You read a headline: "Coffee cures cancer!"
Before you start chugging espresso, dig deeper.
Is it a single study or a meta-analysis?
Who funded the research?
What do other experts say?
This question turns you from an information consumer into a critical thinker.
It's your BS detector in a world of misinformation.
- Question 8: What are the opposing arguments?
- Kahneman knows your brain loves to play favorites.
This question forces you to consider the other side.
Why it matters:
1. It challenges your assumptions
2. It prepares you for potential pitfalls
3. It might change your mind (gasp)
Try this:
Before your next big decision, play devil's advocate.
List all the reasons why it might be a terrible idea.
You'll either strengthen your resolve or avoid a costly mistake.
Win-win.
- Remember: Your brain is trying to trick you. These questions are your secret weapon.
Use them wisely.