Stanford Psychology Podcast 156 - Katy Milkman: The Art and Science of Lasting Behavior Change
Jul 4, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Katy Milkman, a renowned professor at The Wharton School, shares her groundbreaking research on behavior change. She discusses innovative 'megastudies' that unlock insights into effective habits and highlights how psychological insights can complement economic theories. Katy also delves into her non-traditional educational journey, the vital role mentorship plays in academia, and how ownership language can encourage positive health behaviors. Her passion for translating science into actionable strategies is both inspiring and eye-opening.
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Behavioral Economics Origins
- Behavioral economics blends economic models with psychological insights about human irrationalities.
- It originated from Kahneman and Tversky discovering biases in decision-making, reshaping standard economic assumptions.
Katy's Academic Journey
- Katy Milkman shifted from disliking poor econ teaching to majoring in operations research.
- Her senior thesis analyzed New Yorker fiction statistically, revealing patterns in author demographics and editorial impact.
Impact of Behavior on Health
- About half of premature deaths are linked to modifiable behaviors, highlighting huge potential for impact through behavior change.
- This realization shifted Katy Milkman’s research focus towards meaningful, large-scale behavior change.
