Motley Fool Money Interview with MichaelAaron Flicker: Hacking the Human Mind
Dec 21, 2025
Michael Aaron Flicker, co-author of "Hacking the Human Mind," is a behavioral science consultant who has partnered with big names like Nike and J.P. Morgan. He shares insights on why consumer behavior often contradicts stated preferences, touching on fascinating concepts like loss aversion and the sunk cost fallacy. Flicker discusses the pratfall effect, illustrating how small flaws can enhance likability. He explores the evolving role of AI in decision-making, questioning if human biases will endure even as technology influences choices.
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Episode notes
Emotion Trumps Rationality
- Humans are far more emotionally driven than rationally driven when making decisions.
- Understanding mental shortcuts helps you work with the mind rather than against it.
Use Behavioral Insights Before Acting
- Reveal behavioral insights to analyze both businesses and your own motivations before acting.
- Work with your mind's tendencies so decisions align with long-term goals.
Loss Aversion’s Powerful Pull
- Loss aversion makes losses feel worse than equivalent gains feel good.
- People often require roughly double the potential gain to accept a comparable loss risk.