Freakonomics Radio 382. How Goes the Behavior-Change Revolution?
Jun 20, 2019
Richard Thaler, a Nobel Prize-winning economist and behavioral scientist, shares fascinating insights on human behavior during a live discussion. Thaler reveals how humans often resist change, showcasing examples like binge drinking and humblebragging. He explores the psychological intricacies of regret, including the difference between regretting actions versus inactions. The conversation also touches on the challenges of making informed health decisions and the impact of social dynamics on our choices. With humor and relatability, Thaler uncovers the quirky aspects of human decision-making.
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Behavior Change Difficulty
- Behavior Change for Good researchers significantly increased gym attendance for 28 days using incentives and reminders.
- However, lasting behavior change after the program ended proved elusive, highlighting the difficulty of establishing long-term habits.
Self-Control and Fun
- Some argue that changing spontaneous, whimsical behaviors eliminates the fun and unique aspects of humanity.
- However, self-control is about aligning behavior with personal values, which can include spontaneity and enjoyment.
Pettiness and Venmo
- Research on Venmo payments reveals that people dislike those who meticulously split bills down to the cent.
- This "pettiness" is perceived negatively, even compared to slight underpayment, suggesting a preference for generosity over precision in social contexts.
