Breaking beliefism

Cass Sunstein

9 snips
Jun 6, 2025
Join Cass Sunstein, a Harvard professor and nudge theory pioneer, as he explores the fascinating interplay between habituation and human experiences. He shares insights on how adapting to life dulls our sensitivity to joy and sorrow. Sunstein also discusses navigating success, emphasizing the often-overlooked role of luck. With anecdotes about the emotional impacts of music and the importance of embracing diverse perspectives, this conversation is a thought-provoking dive into personal reflection and societal narratives.
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INSIGHT

Human Adaptation to Stimuli

  • Humans show diminishing sensitivity to stimuli, habituating to both good and bad experiences over time.
  • This adaptation helps us live with difficult circumstances and overlook the miraculous in everyday life.
INSIGHT

Economics Overlooks Habituation

  • Economists often overlook habituation because they focus on preference and monetary valuation.
  • Subjective welfare and habituation bring complexity beyond simple willingness to pay models.
ANECDOTE

Dogs and Habituation Differences

  • Dogs do not habituate to seeing their owner after absences; they get excited each time.
  • Their temporal sense keeps them present, unlike human habituation over longer periods.
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