Philosophy For Our Times More choice means less freedom | Psychologist Barry Schwartz
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Jul 11, 2025 
Barry Schwartz, an influential psychologist and author of 'The Paradox of Choice', delves into the complexities of decision-making in an age of overwhelming options. He reveals how more choices can lead to dissatisfaction and choice paralysis, particularly affecting mental health among younger generations. Schwartz discusses the pursuit of perfection, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey over unattainable goals. He suggests embracing 'good enough' solutions and critiques how dating apps can hinder genuine connections, all while questioning our societal standards.
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Striving Raises Standards and Disappointment
- Striving for the best raises our standards, leading to constant disappointment despite improvements.
- This gap between objective success and subjective dissatisfaction explains why trying for the best can reduce happiness.
More Choice Paralyzes and Dissatisfies
- More choice, though intuitively better, causes psychological paralysis and dissatisfaction.
- Overwhelming options make people expect to find the absolute best, which is often impossible, leading to stress.
Digital Age Worsens Choice Overload
- Online shopping now gives instant access to thousands of options without leaving home.
- This ease of access worsens choice paralysis by making people keep searching endlessly for better options.
