Bias from Self-Interest — Self Deception and Denial to Reduce Pain or Increase Pleasure

Bias from Self-Interest — Self Deception and Denial to Reduce Pain or Increase Pleasure

Unveiling the intricate dance between self-interest and bias, we delve into the human tendency for self-deception and denial. Explore how these mechanisms serve to minimize pain and maximize pleasure, shaping our perceptions and decisions in unexpected ways.

Self-Esteem

Important aspect of personal well-being, adjustment, and happiness

The Vicious Cycle of Self-Justification

Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson in their book Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me): Why We Justify Foolish Beliefs, Bad Decisions, and Hurtful Acts explain the vicious cycle of choices with an analogy of a pyramid.

Making Smarter Choices

We are not doomed to live in denial or keep striving to justify our actions. We always have the choice to correct our tendencies, once we recognize them.

Avoiding Reality by Denying It

Denial occurs, when we encounter a serious thought about reality, but decide to ignore it

Making Things Easier

At the personal level, Charlie Munger suggests we should face two simple facts.

Rationalizing Our Choices

Our tendency to rationalize the choices we have made

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