Episode 322: Live from ASA 2025 Addressing Cognitive Errors with Dr. Joyce Wahr

James Reason's "Human Error" is a seminal work in human factors and ergonomics. It explores the cognitive processes that lead to errors, distinguishing between active failures and latent conditions. Reason introduces the Swiss cheese model, illustrating how multiple layers of defense can fail, leading to accidents. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the system's role in human error, rather than solely blaming individuals. It has significantly influenced safety management systems and accident investigation methodologies across various industries. Reason's work promotes a more systemic approach to safety, moving beyond individual blame.

In this book, Daniel Kahneman takes readers on a tour of the mind, explaining how the two systems of thought shape our judgments and decisions. System 1 is fast, automatic, and emotional, while System 2 is slower, effortful, and logical. Kahneman discusses the impact of cognitive biases, the difficulties of predicting future happiness, and the effects of overconfidence on corporate strategies. He offers practical insights into how to guard against mental glitches and how to benefit from slow thinking in both personal and business life. The book also explores the distinction between the 'experiencing self' and the 'remembering self' and their roles in our perception of happiness.

In this book, Dr. Jerome Groopman explores the forces and thought processes behind the decisions doctors make. He highlights how doctors often interrupt patients within eighteen seconds to decide on a diagnosis and treatment, which can sometimes lead to catastrophic consequences. The book draws on extensive interviews with top doctors and Groopman's own experiences as a doctor and patient, providing direct questions patients can ask to improve their care. It also delves into the challenges of medical practice, including the tension between acknowledging uncertainty and the need to take clinical action, and discusses how understanding these processes can reduce mistakes in diagnosis and treatment.

In 'Illusions', Richard Bach tells the story of two barnstorming pilots who meet in the Midwest of the United States. The protagonist, Richard Bach, a disillusioned writer and pilot, meets Donald Shimoda, a self-described messiah who teaches him about the illusory nature of reality. Through their journeys in vintage biplanes, Richard learns to deconstruct his perceived limitations and understand the underlying reality behind the world's illusions. The novel emphasizes themes of spiritual growth, self-discovery, and the power of human imagination. Donald Shimoda's teachings, as outlined in the 'Messiah's Handbook', guide Richard towards ultimate enlightenment and freedom.