- The Productivity Blueprint
- Posts
- What the science says about unconscious decision making
What the science says about unconscious decision making
Welcome to The Productivity Blueprint newsletter ๐๏ธ
We hope you found last week's focus on time management beneficial! If you missed last week, you can catch up here ๐
This week, we're peeling back the layers on unconscious decision-making. Let's take a look at what science has to say.
"The unconscious mind is a powerful thing, and it can help us make decisions in the blink of an eye. But these snap judgments can be educated and controlled.โ
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0b6db8cc-5d45-4ce4-9c2e-f448d69e4b30/aotw.png?t=1700579173)
The article critically examines the concept of unconscious decision-making, particularly focusing on the theory that individuals can make better decisions through unconscious thought processes compared to conscious deliberation.
The discussion is rooted in the findings from a series of studies, including a notable experiment involving car choices where participants were said to perform better under conditions of unconscious thought. However, these results are challenged by the authors, where they highlight several subsequent studies that fail to replicate these findings, as well as flawed methodolgiies in the original study.
Overall, the idea that unconscious thought can lead to better decision outcomes is heavily contested. Studies attempting to replicate earlier findings generally do not support the superiority of unconscious decision-making. Even in diverse scenarios, including complex decision-making processes, unconscious thinking has not proven to be more effective than conscious deliberation ๐ญ๐ค
TL/DR: The notion that unconscious decision-making is superior to conscious deliberation is challenged by recent studies, which show no significant advantage in decision quality regardless of the thinking mode. This suggests a need for skepticism regarding the effectiveness of unconscious thought in complex decision-making scenarios.
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7e7d7f3d-d615-45df-8224-88038974c0bd/totw.png?t=1700579107)
![]() Lumosity offers brain training games designed to enhance cognitive abilities like memory and problem-solving. You will receive feedback on progress, helping you understand and improve brain function over time. What we love: Lumosity adapts specifically for you, based on your strengths and preferences! | ![]() Smiling Mind is a mindfulness app designed to improve mental health through meditation. What we love: They offer free programs as well, and have a huge range of programs based on your preferences or needs. |
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/04526f66-00c3-4d00-a07e-1d69335f876a/cotw.png?t=1700579024)
๐ก Challenge of the week
Commit to 'Conscious Choices'. This week, approach every decision with a clear pro-con list and compare the outcomes. Were they more aligned with your goals and preferences?
Thatโs all for this newsletter! We hope you enjoyed learning more about unconscious decision making, and whether it is ultimately more effective.
Until next week,
The Productivity Blueprint Team
If youโre enjoying The Productivity Blueprint, spread the word by sharing the โโsign up linkโโ with a colleague or friend. We appreciate the support ๐
Partner with The Productivity Blueprint!โโ
Contact us to learn more.โโ