The Science Behind Our Everyday Decisions with Think Fast, Talk Smart

In this episode of If/Then, we're diving into insights from three GSB experts featured on Think Fast, Talk Smart. Join us as professor of organizational behavior Michele Gelfand explains her "tight and loose" cultural framework, revealing how societal structures impact everything from crime rates to creativity. We also hear from marketing professor Jonathan Levav, who explores decision fatigue in judicial settings, shedding light on how mental depletion influences choices. Finally, marketing professor Szu-chi Huang discusses the role of motivation and emotionality in decision-making, drawing from her experiences in advertising and academia. Together, these discussions provide a multifaceted view of the elements influencing our choices and interactions.

Key Takeaways:

• Switch between “tight” and “loose” mindsets: Individuals can code switch between “tight” and “loose” mindsets depending on the setting. You can shape your environment to help promote certain mindsets.
• Take mental breaks: Decision fatigue causes individuals to make the easier decision, not necessarily better ones. Taking breaks can help replenish your mental energy to think through decisions properly.
• Target your audience’s emotional needs: Emotion drives decision making. Messaging that meets emotional needs is more impactful.

More Resources:

• Michele Gelfand, faculty profile
• Jonathan Levav, faculty profile
• Szu-chi Huang, faculty profile
• Think Fast Talk Smart 

If/Then is a podcast from Stanford Graduate School of Business that examines research findings that can help us navigate the complex issues we face in business, leadership, and society. For a full transcript of this episode, visit our podcast’s website.

Chapters: 

(00:00:00) Introduction

Kevin Cool introduces the episode featuring GSB faculty discussing their research on the Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast.

(00:00:35) Cultural Tightness vs. Looseness

The benefits of "tight" versus "loose" culture.

(00:03:47) Adjusting to Different Cultural Norms

Whether individuals can adapt to cultural tightness or looseness.

(00:05:24) Decision Fatigue in Court Settings

A study on how decision fatigue affects parole rulings over time.

(00:07:29) Communication to Combat Decision Fatigue

Insights into overcoming decision fatigue and enhancing communication.

(00:09:48) The Roots of Motivation

The transition from advertising to studying motivation in academia.

(00:11:13) Needs and Emotions in Decision-Making

The influence of needs and emotions in effective decision-making.

(00:13:43) Conclusion

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