Book: Thinking, Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman
1) What was the general theme or argument of the book?
The main theme was how the different ways we think may be affecting our decisions both in business and in life. There are two thinking systems, one is intuitive & quick, while the second is slow & logical. It is important to take the time to analyze problems instead of quickly jumping to conclusions and taking the first thinking system. He also goes into detail about the various ways our minds trick us, by association or comparison bias (perspective plays a big role).
2) How did the book, in your opinion, connect with and enhance what you are learning in ENT 3003?
This book gave me increased insight into the complex mind that humans hold. This class has taught me that you do not need to be born with a special talent or intelligence to be successful. It is all about how much work you put in, how well you prepare yourself, and the habits you have for yourself. Kahneman aligns with this belief by enforcing the importance of not always relying on your intuition but rather taking the time to understand things before making decisions.
3) If you had to design an exercise for this class, based on the book you read, what would that exercise involve?
I would give exercises similar to the ones mentioned in the book that teach people about the different ways the mind thinks and tricks us. For example, I would ask you “Do you think the tallest building in the world is greater or less than 2500 feet?” then I would ask you a follow up question, “approximate the size of the tallest building in the world?”. This would help students understand the idea of anchoring bias, which involves using previously given information to make your decisions. The answer people have will change significantly if I switch the number from 2500 feet to 135 ft in the first question.
4) What was your biggest surprise or 'aha' moment when reading the book? In other words, what did you learn that differed most from your expectations?
The biggest surprise was how much these tactics are used by businesses to sell products. I had not put so much thought into how strategic certain promotional strategies were. I will now be more careful in making sure I do not get tricked into making the wrong decisions. I’ve never been a big spender so in a way those advertisements never really worked on me, but I will keep my eye open so I can help those around me not fall into the trap.
Thank you for your post. In reading about the general theme of the book, I am very interested in learning more about the ways that our minds trick us. I agree that this class focuses on that we do not need to be born an entrepreneur to be one. We can learn how and put in the work. I appreciated your insight into the use of the tactics in this book for promotional strategies. You have peaked my interest in reading this book!
ReplyDeleteHi Erick!
ReplyDeleteI really like your idea related to this book. Bias effects everyone, and it affects everyone differently. Everyone needs to realize what their implicit biases are in general and work actively not to let those ideas influence their thinking. It is hard to combat how preferences if we do not know how they affect us and what forms they come. Great post!
Hey Erick, loved your reflection on the book. I didn’t get to read it but after your reflection I’m thinking about taking a look. I’ve always been interested in how the human mind works and this book seems to be a perfect introduction for me. I also really liked the exercise you mentioned because there are so many tricks that can be used to affect how the mind thinks.
ReplyDeleteHi Erick,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your reflection of this book. I am curious about the human mind and how different mindsets affect your life. I have started listening to motivational podcasts about affirmation and becoming successful. I agree that this class has taught me that I do not need natural talent to become successful, as long as I put in the work, stay organized, and keep the right mindset.I appreciate your outlook on this book. Great post!