Behavioral science should start by assuming people are reasonable

Open Access
Authors
  • J.K. Madsen
  • L. de-Wit
  • P. Ayton
  • C. Brick ORCID logo
  • L. de-Moliere
  • C.J. Groom
Publication date 07-2024
Journal Trends in Cognitive Sciences
Volume | Issue number 28 | 7
Pages (from-to) 583-585
Number of pages 3
Organisations
  • Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences (FMG) - Psychology Research Institute (PsyRes)
Abstract

Should policymaking assume humans are irrational? Using empirical, theoretical, and philosophical arguments, we suggest a more useful frame is that human behavior is reasonable. Through identifying goals and systemic factors shaping behavior, we suggest that assuming people are reasonable enables behavioral science to be more effective in shaping public policy.
Document type Article
Language English
Published at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2024.04.010
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