2 years ago on April 29th 2007 I turned 40 and at the same day submitted the final draft of Predictably Irrational to my editor.
It has been an incredible journey, very unexpected, and much more exciting than I imagined.
A few weeks ago I finished writing the expanded version of Predictably Irrational, and today I should get the first copy from the printer.
Irrationally yours
Dan
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Irrationality is not all bad. In the Upside of irrationality we examine some of the positive effects irrationality have on our lives and offer a new look on the irrational decisions that influence our personal lives and our workplace experiences.
When we make decisions we think we're in control, making rational choices. But are we? Entertaining and surprising, Ariely unmasks the subtle but powerful tricks that our minds play on us.
Happy Birthday! We’ll have to do another lunch once the term ends.
Yo Professor
Happy Birthday! Keep up the good work.
happy bday! loved the book, but im wondering… will you be updating the kindle version with the new expanded material? or will i have to buy it again to get that?
Mazal Tov X 2 !
I’m a therapist and happy observer of the world. Enjoyed the book but feel you stopped short. You mentioned the primitive brain (reptilian, limbic system) but didn’t give it the attention it deserves. It, in fact, is the underlying source of all you reported. Basically, that part of our brain is present to let us know if something is safe or dangerous. It is capable of hijacking the rational part of us when it thinks (rightly or wrongly) that we’re in danger (as in jumping away from a falling tree). Marketers have known this all along. They appeal to our basic needs for survival (being part of our tribe, attracting a mate, being capable of taking care of ourselves, etc., and imply that without their product or services we won’t be able to accomplish these things and survive. Fear (danger) overrides reason (in this case inappropriately), and leads us to choices that are based in emotion rather than practical thinking. Different parts of the brain are involved, and they have very interesting and complex interactions. When we understand the source of our impulsive choices, we can better understand how and when to intervene with ourselves. (Reminding ourselves that we are safe is an amazingly effective deterrent to foolishness.) Much of what you said is on target. I just found myself wishing you’d gone the rest of the way.
Will your loyal blog readers get the opportunity to have a sneak preview of the expanded edition?