I find distinct parallels between what Dan shared and subliminal messages. Both provoke a response by the power of suggestion, only with Dan's study the power of suggestion was directly before you rather than the slight of hand tricks done in subliminal messaging. Though, I would say the license/organ donor section was more than a slight of hand power of suggestion parlor trick, in that most likely many didn't pay close enough attention to the form, which might deceive me, too, especially if I am rushed or preoccupied in thought. The physician scenario was very, very alarming. Am I in control of my decisions? There was a time I was more easily influenced or swayed, but despite unusual circumstances would say for the most part that I am in control of my decisions. Lack of money makes it easy not to make poor decision. I think those in possession of a weak mind are more susceptible to having their decisions influenced by foreign means.
I too was alarmed and troubled by the physicians, but they are humans also, and are prone to poor decision-making from time to time. Sad but true. Their insurance underwriters would agree, but behind closed doors. Good distinction between subliminal messages and what Dan presented.
I agree with you Scott, lack of money does make it easy not to make a bad decision. As I wrote on my post, I'm one to always read the small print before signing anything. Also, I'm big on sales...lol.
To be honest I believed that we are entitle to make our own decisions good or bad. The way Dan was describing the way certain people and certain countries makes their decisions is mind blowing I liked how he made a lot of examples on decision making. Sometimes I wonder if we’re really in control of our decisions I feel like sometimes people get manipulating into making decisions they don’t want or they feel obligated into making a decision they don’t want. We all have to live with those decisions throughout our entire life it can go either good or it can also go by bad. I also agree that sometimes a person’s decision has to do with their behavior and their environment they are surrounding themselves with. But then yet again, I have my doubts about it, it also occurs to me that most of these people really don’t have control of their lives or sometimes they have just little control. I wish making a life decision was as easy as either eating a burger or a hotdog because you can really choose whatever you want you can even choose both if you really like to. Also mentioning that certain people have little control over their own decisions makes me want to talk about teenagers and young children they don’t have control over anything at this point their parents are the ones who make their decisions for them. So at the end of the day I think that question is an unanswerable question only because you might think you’re making your own decision but in reality you’re not.
Well this brought a smile to my face. Are you sure you are making the decision on the hot dog or hamburger, or is it that you were sold the idea on how good either one is and now you perceive you make the decision based on what you were sold in the past (meaning in early childhood)? Go ahead; have that grilled hamburger, but don't let me make that decision for you!
Albion, I'm glad I bought a smile to your face and the decision is made I chose the hamburger HA! it was a hard decision but it was ultimately made my me.
Even after watching the video I feel that we are still in control of our own decisions. Although, sometimes we are persuaded to make different decisions that are irrational. This is when we essentially act on something too quickly without giving much thought into the topic or issue on hand. A quick decision would be the subscription example that he explained in the video. But at the end of the day, thinking slowly and rationally will lead us in the correct direction of making wise, controlled decisions. We are in control of all decisions we make in life.
Jason, I too believed that we are entitle to make our own decisions but to me sometimes it feels as if we don't sometimes have any saying in what we have to do or say.
I think we are in control of our own decision. However, I do think the things around us do influence us. Sometimes it takes a lot of self control and strength to be able to make your own decision 100%. When I first saw the title I thought without a doubt we were in control of our decision. After watching the film, I realized a lot of things that make me so indecisive are actually controlling my decision. I immediately reacted the same one so many did when I saw the $125 online & print deal next to the $125 print only deal. Thinking more about this I realized a majority of my decisions are based on the fact if I feel like I'm getting a good deal or not. I can make decisions much faster if I feel like I'm getting a good bargain. Otherwise, I have a hard time choosing what I actually want. So, like I said before I think we have the power to make our own decisions, but sometimes we are more powerful than other times. I definitely agree that the forces and circumstances around us influence us a lot.
I do believe that we are 100 percent in control of our own decisions after watching this video, but I strongly believe the outside environment influences us to make a certain decision. We usually make decisions that have the most benefit to us in the near future. Most people want to see benefits or outcomes right away, so they make the decision that will have almost instantaneous outcome. Being able to think slowly and look for outcomes/benefits that can happen later on down the line can be more important than the choices of in the short term.
Christian, yes I too believed that we are entitle to making our own decisions and well I also think that we as humans tend to get influenced outside our circle and outside our lives.
Your right Christian, I too believe it's better to make a decision after some serious thought while keeping one's future in mind. A thought in impulse will not bring anything good.
After watching this Ted Talk I believe it is highly questionable that we are in control of our decisions. Sure, we are able to choose certain things but as the speaker pointed out, we are only limited to choices. He ends his speech by hoping that humans will be able to understand our cognitive limitations and I would agree. Although we are able to make our choices, it is clear that our choices may be an illusion or a limit. I think this idea can become very complex, since everyone has a different set of beliefs and behavior.
To begin with, I think this was an interesting video; it made me think about our decisions in a different way. After pondering a while on this question, I think I will have to say that we are not in control of our decisions. We do ultimately have the decision on what we decide to do. No matter what our decision is, it is always influenced by something whether you are aware of it or not. My favorite example was the economist one. When there were 3 options, an electronic subscription, paper subscription, and both web and print subscription. He gave it to 100 students and had them pick the best subscription. The option of electronic and print copy was offered for the same price of the print copy. Most students chose the print/electronic option. We as people choose the print/electronic option because we believe it’s a great bundle. When the print copy was removed, and he asked 100 students again, the people started choosing the web option. Why was the web option chosen the most? It was because it was the cheaper option. The people chose the bundle the first time because you got both for the same price as one. When that option was removed, they chose the cheaper one. They were influenced both times, but without knowing it. When we make decisions, we try to weight it out to see what option is the better option or what is best fit for us. Without thinking, we are actually getting influenced by the possible outcomes that we may make if we make that one decision.
I think that many times we are not in control of our own decisions. One of the reasons we think that we make our own decisions is because the decision is made at a subconscious level. Our brains love to take the shortest distance between two points. We evolved this way to protect our energy reserves. Prior to civilization as we know it today, we had no idea when or where the next meal would be, so it was important to expend as little energy as possible and gain the maximum results for this expenditure. The brain, being a glucose guzzler, would rather not exert lots of energy on decision-making that does not immediately affect survival. Many times we allow others to make decisions for us with just a little coercion. I had this experience recently at the mall. I asked for a small lemonade, and was promptly told that I could get a medium for just fifty cents more. I asked to see the size of the medium, and as the server showed me the medium, she suggested that it was a better deal if I got the large which was only twenty cents more than the medium. Sounds familiar? Now I thought, what the hell, I only wanted something to wet my throat and now I am being persuaded to buy this monster drink that I could share with at least two cashiers at Macy’s. It did not work on me this time, but without a doubt, I have fallen victim to thoughtless decision-making, due to my brain’s inability, or laziness (thanks to evolution), at a given time in the past. It is just a part of who we are, and when a person starts to feel that this is not them, they should ask themselves; did I truly make that decision for myself, or was I persuaded because of what I believe others may think of me? On a side note, I love the illusions in this video. They help the underscore how fallible we are as humans.
I was thinking about Freud's Ig, Ego, Super Ego, in regards to the subconscious, too. LOL, I love the "upsizing" story, and glad to hear you stood pat, Albion.
Before and after watching this Ted Talk, I do still believe that we have control of our decisions about 50% of the time. This 50% represents the times when we take a decision from a very broad group of choices. The times when we decide our favorite color, the best ice-cream flavor, and the people we want to interact. It will depend on the individual’s personality. The rest of the time, our decisions are limited based on our options. For example, we can decide what store we want to go. Once in the grocery store, we are to decide what brand of bread we are buying. But the store has already decided the brands they want to sell based on profit. So, who has the decision control? Companies makes us to prefer their articles by the way their propaganda is designed. They hire professional people (psychologist most of them) that know how to stimulate our minds, with the intention to persuade us to buy their products, and still makes us believe that we are the ones who make the last desition.
Even after watching this video, I believe that we make our own decisions all the time. From simple decisions like choosing what to eat, what to wear, and what to do. To more complex decisions like should I spend my money in this item, should I do this but I might get in trouble, and what is the job I want to work at for the rest of my days. As a young age, the parents might choose the decisions of their children, but sometimes even children decide to make their own decisions. For example, telling a child not to jump of the play structure, but they do it anyways and they get hurt. As a an adult we still make our own decisions. For example, buying something that might not be the best idea, but still buy it and now they are stressing. They are stressing, because they do not know how they might pay it off. I think we all make and choose our own decisions.
I think we do make our own decisions all the time but I agree there is a way many brands can influence it. His idea of irrational decisions was so interesting because it is something I never knew. When given a lot of options I think the decision feels more important to us than if we just had two choices, when that's not the case. People like to feel important and believe we make the right decisions. I think really it just depends on the situation, to determine the amount of control we actually have when making a choice. I do agree with the fact that there are always options to choose from, takes away some of our control.
After watching this video, I feel that we fully make our own decisions. We choose what we do, where we go, etc. Although, I do feel that our environment and the people/things around us have a huge influence on what we decide. Our friends, family, and others give us ideas and show us other concepts that change our mind/behavior. I believe this can be a good or a bad thing. Others can influence us to do better, but they can also push us to do worse. For example, peer pressuring a friend to do drugs or drink alcohol if they don't want to. Like the example in the video, I feel that a lot of times when buying items we worry about getting a good deal and don't pick what we truly would have. Sometimes, we bargain for less than what we would originally decide if the price is cheaper. Overall, I feel that we make our own decisions and it's entirely up to us on what we decide in the end.
The first thought to the question on whether individuals are capable of making own decisions is “yes of course we are responsible for our own actions”. Society always tends to punish or point fingers that are direct at the individual only, stigmatizing all the other effects that could have influence such behaviors. Decision-making is a cognitive aspect of our human behavior. I strongly believe on the statement that economist Dan Ariely is proposing. Dan Ariely states that humans are capable of making their decisions. However, it is the rational decisions that are difficult for us to make or process. When taking into consideration all the decisions we are making we have to consider the influences that are surrounding when we do make irrational decisions. I think we are yet to investigate more of the human mind to be able to report specifically what could we do in terms of rational decision-making. The study of cognitive psychology is still an area of research that is needed. The more the research is conducted, the more professionals understand how complex the human mind is. I defiantly agree with Dan Ariely, in order for us to get better at our rational decision-making we need to first understand our cognitive functions and limitations. The acknowledgement of such limitations will allow designers in important areas in our society to make a better world.
The video was interesting and eye-opening in that I have never heard the topic explained in that way, but I still believe we are in control of our own decisions. Sometimes, people don't care enough about Choice A versus Choice B, so they allow someone else to make the choice for us. We would rather spend time focusing on something else, some decision we have an interest in. It isn’t necessarily that someone takes that choice from us, but rather we give it to them to make. We take the easy way out. For big decisions or things that are important to us individually, we will take the time to think things through. We consider the outcomes of either decision, list the benefits and drawbacks, and eventually come to a conclusion. I believe each choice we need to make is prioritized; we will decide on the more important ones, then if time permits, decide the ones lower on the list.
After watching the video I found it to be sort of an eye opener because it pointed out certain aspects that I never considered while making decisions myself. Even after watching the video I believe we are still in control of our own decisions but to an extent. I never considered the fact that the decisions we tend to make on a daily basis are affected by certain factors, we seem to let our decisions be influeced by outside forces. For instance, I thought the example he used about the yearly subscriptions was quite interesting because it shows how certain options can influence the choices people make during the process of decision making. It was interesting how removing one choice was able to influence people's decision in a total different manner. It seemed as if having three options balanced them out but narrowing it down to only two seemed to put put more pressure but at the same time make the process of decision making a lot easier. Also the DMV example, how the way in which the donors option was worded in each country has a huge impact on whether people will choose it or not. The examples he mentioned sort of gave me an understanding of how I have personally been influenced by such factors and now that I think back they also influenced the choices I made. I think this has a lot to do with the fact that we tend to let the outside factors influence us rather than choosing what we think is right. Overall, I do think we are all in control of our decisions, however we seem to let minor factors affect the way in which we make those decisions.
After watching the video I realized we are not in control of our own decisions. For instance, we may make the decisions but behind the decision there may be something causing us to make that decision. For example, in the video Dan referred about the three options people had about getting online access for cheap, then print access for $125 and both for $125. This shows us that depending on the options we have available to us we make decisions. Therefore, we don't have control over our own decisions because the others choose our options and they influence our decisions. Yes, we make the decision but its based off of the best choice depending on what is offered to us.
I really think that we are in control of our decisions. This is because every person has an inner mind influence. This inner mind influence is what helps us make our own decisions. However, the external environment tries to modify and influence our decisions. This includes several examples, which Dan Ariely illustrated. An example is based on buying a $59.00 edition, a $129.00 edition, or both editions costing $129.00. Most people would choose the $129.00 double edition package. If this option is eliminated, people would most likely choose the $59.00 edition. I noticed that when new options and criteria are added to a situation, our original thoughts and decisions change (either dramatically or gradually). Dan Ariely gave great examples of optical and cognitive illusions. Some of these examples were humorous, and I enjoyed them a lot. There are people who are in full control of their lives, people who are able to make both good and bad decisions, and people who lose a lot of control of their lives. However, it would be more interesting to wonder, “What makes some people make better decisions, and maintain full control of their own lives?” However, I noticed that it is hard to find the answer to this question. Optical illusions are easier to deal with, but cognitive illusions are a little bit more abstract. Other funny examples include Paris versus Rome, the physicians’ options, Tom/Jerry, and the organ donors on the left versus the ones on the right. Dan Ariely clearly stated that people tend to focus more on the physical aspects of themselves, rather than the cognitive aspects of themselves. He said that if people focus a little more on the cognitive aspects of themselves, the world will be a better environment. Even though this video was a little bit more difficult to understand, I enjoyed it a lot. I am looking forward to seeing it again.
I think willpower and positive attitudes are key factors, which shape a person's life.
I think the question speaks for itself. It's Our decision to make, no one else's. After watching the Ted talk, I agree that there tends to be many different influences in everyday life. Which alter what and how we decide what decisions we make. But I do not believe that is the primary source of our decisions. I also believe that it truly relays of what type of person we are. For example, person A, can be influenced easily on how to make certain decisions by media or loved ones. While person B, it not. Person B will take the media’s or loved ones consideration but will not be influenced by what decision they ultimately will have to make. Because they understand that at the end of the end of the day it's their lives, their decisions. So yes I do believe we make our own decisions.
HI, I agree with your opinion. There are two types of persons, one that is easily influenced and on that is not. I know I'm person B, I do take a loved one's advice into consideration but I ultimately make my own decisions. These decisions will always be based on how they will help me in the present and in my future.
I really enjoyed watching this video, because it made me think about decision-making in a whole new way. Even after watching this video I do believe that we are still in control of our decisions. However, it is hard to tell especially in today's modern society because there is so much propaganda, commercials and advertising that we don't even think about it. All of these put together our ways to get us to make certain decisions, so how are we to really know whether or not we are really making our own. I think its important that we are able to make our own decisions and think for ourselves.
Even after watching the video I still believe we make our own decisions. However, I think the video shows how easily and how much we are influenced. Some people don’t care as much about their decisions so they do what is convenient, which is a way of making their own decisions. They are deciding to do to the most convenient thing; like the example of the organ donors. Or the example with the subscriptions where people make decisions based on how good of a deal they think they are getting. Either way people are making their own decisions in some way.
Honestly in my opinion I believe that we are in control of ourselves and we can make any decision that we want to make. After watching this video, I still believe that we are entitled to make our own decisions. Just like dan mentioned in the video, it's hard to accept the idea of the Illusion of us making that decision. As a young person grows they are immediately stuck with the idea that their parents will make a decision for them. Once we are older we still might feel that way and I understand because we are stuck with our parents making decisions for us. The way that Dan was describing all these ways of idea making decisions blew my mind because I had never expanded my mind to think like that. I personally still believe that Ideas are made individually and thats where it goes both ways because everyone has their own opinion.
I believe that we are in control of our own decisions to an extent. Yes, as individuals we have the freedom of choice and thus we can make choices as we like, but in reality how much is it our own decisions? and not someone or something influencing us into making our decisions? Think about it, if it were up to us we probably would not want to work, or go to school, or not do any of the adult responsibilities that we have in our lives. However, we cannot make such choices, as responsibilities are waiting for us. Hence, if we were to decided not to be responsible then there would be consequences, just as every choice we make, whether good or bad. Therefore, in my opinion we are constantly influenced to make our decisions and while we are in control to decide to make those decisions we do not always act upon our own personal wants but on those that are necessary to survive and sustain our lives.
Even after watching the video, I hold a firm belief that we are in control of our decisions. I believe that decision-making is a skill that is acquired through practice, as it's a very important thing to have in life. Influence, whether disruptive or beneficial, does not necessarily take us away from our intended goals. In fact, I would say that helps you make your decision overall by closing out options or finding even more optimal decisions along the way. A choice that we originally made might not have been the right one, and there are always many possibilities in what can and cannot be the right decision. Also, the suggestion to say that we are not in control of our own decisions means that is being made by someone else. It's a decision to listen to whomever or whatever sways you, and free will no matter would guide you on what you decide. Options being eliminated can influence this, however. There are many times in competitive games where I am forced to do something, or I lose. Sometimes both the right answer or the wrong answer does not matter either, because it was already an inevitability I would lose anyway. Sometimes situations like that can't be helped.
I believe that we are in control of our own decisions. I am totally confident that no one is making decisions for me. The fact is if you think about it that we make hundreds if not thousands of decisions everyday. I think a lot of factors play into your decision making process. Age or experience will have you making a different decision than you did say ten years ago. That doesn't mean you made the wrong decision when you were younger just that you are in a different place now and will make the decision that will best work for you. I think a lot of decisions we make have little repercussion for example, what should I eat for breakfast today? Or what should I wear today. While other decisions require more thought to make sure you find the one that is right for you, like what should I major in? When should I get married? Or when it is time to buy a house. Some people are malleable and can't walk into a store without seeing something to buy because it comes with this, or buying a car because it's new even though their car is only six years old. This was still their decision they just made a poor one for their situation and now have to live with the consequences. I'm a firm believer of you can't outrun your past, that's why it is important to make good decisions today.
After watching the video I think that we still are in control. I mean at time some of us can be influenced in ways that we are not aware of. But in the end it is ultimately our decisions to make. I guess it also depends in what type of situation we are in. We are constantly making decisions in life like when we are working or in our personal life. There are times you don't have time to think and you have to make a quick decision. I like the example he used with the rubric cube one side was brown and the other seemed to be yellow but in reality they were both the same color. This shows that our judgement can affect a decision we make and it could be wrong. The decisions that we make in our lives is what we have to live with whether they are good or bad this is why we have to think before making an important decisions.
I have always felt that I was in control of my own decision but after watching this video I am not so sure. I think how Dan explained the newspaper choices is something that I can relate too. By comparing 3 things and then choosing the best option or picking out of two. Especially with things like bundled internet, home phone and cable, or another example is the buy on get one free stores do. I experienced this at a store the other day, I went in wanting to buy a pair of shorts and I came out with four because they were buy one get one free. I also didn’t thing the shorts were cheap they were $44 each but I ended up spending more than I wanted because of the “sale”. Gimmicks like this are where I think I am not in charge of my decisions but I would like to think that I am.
So, what is it, are you in control of your own decisions?
First of all I'm not shocked at how easy or minds can be manipulated. I have always been aware that no matter how much I try to make the correct decisions, one thing or another will always be hidden in the small print and will soon bite my behind. This is really disturbing to me, especially when it surrounds my finances. Furthermore, this awareness has always contributed to my stress when it comes to things like: credit cards, auto and house purchases, or basically anything that has to do with loans. We all know we can’t get anywhere in life with bad credit, so I have always tried to be as careful as I can to protect mine. We have to be really careful and read everything before signing any form that is given to us. I know it is a real time burden, but at least we have a better chance at not being slapped with anything in the long run. This is just like the example that Dan brought up from the DMV. A simple word change, made those that are most likely not in accordance with to sign up as organ donors. They probably even go on with there lives not even realizing it. There are also a lot of people out there trying to get their commission one way or another, so we all just need to keep our guard up and be really careful. I know I always will!
I believe that our mind is controlled built the things that are going on with our surrounding. The society as a whole creates this standards that we as people think that we have to be a par with. I believe that in some way our descision making skills is ours in some way and in some way we are controlled by some things. For example, you might want to do somethings like rally want to do it but society says it's wrong. So you decide not to do it, there is one example that we are not in control of the things that we want to decide upon. Also, I believe that if we take out the standard that society has implemented I believe that we can take control of our own decision. This goes back to ethical issue where are we destined to some life or some standard or there is a higher power that controls us and that our life has been written. I believe that in some way we are destined and in someway we are free to make our decision. I believe that it's 50, 50 &' some way.
I've pondered this question quite a lot lately. After watching the video I honestly believe that I am in control of my decisions about eighty percent of the time. Often times, my decisions are influenced by the environment/situation around me. Society has set certain standards for us that subconsciously we obey by them. But the majority of the time I make decisions solely by me. Whether it involves work, school, or family, I am in control of my thought and decision process.
I believe that we are and we aren't in control of our decisions. Our decisions are most of all controlled by our initial environment. On top of that the way we are raised through childhood and our peers have a big impact on our decision making. We often make our own decisions but deep down they pertain to those important individuals in your life and the decision you think they would want you to make. Overall we make our own decisions but its the influences on them that actually control them.
For me I believe when we are put into difficult situations we make decisions that are influenced by our environment. If it is a drastic decision and needs to be made quickly we may just pick what seems right in the moment and not think about how it'll affect us in the long run. The people around us also influence our decisions. But we are in control of our choices, but it can get difficult when our surroundings interfere.
I enjoyed being presented with all of the scenarios that he came up with like with the ugly photoshopped versions of the guys. I do agree that if we are presented with a more undesirable option, we will be influenced to choose the option that others actually want us to choose. Ultimately, I do think that we are in control of our own decisions if we are thinking critically. If we are able to think critically, we can assess and test the ways we are being influenced by other factors in this world. We can assess the pros and the cons and make an informative decision. Being influenced is inevitable. We ultimately get to decide what we do because of that influence, even if the influence is not obvious like the ugly photoshopped guys. So in some ways, we are in control of our thinking because we can easily distinguish the influence we are being presented with, but in other ways, the influence in so subtle and we don't even notice. Very interesting to think about. The video made me want to think even more critically about things I am presented with in the future.
After watching the video I still believe that we are in control of our own decisions. Also, I think that people do have an influence in our decision making because Dan did say that people in the DMV sometimes phrase something differently since there is a lot of people that do not read things carefully and they can achieve their purpose. If a person chooses not to read carefully that is their decision. I was impressed how other countries manipulate people to making a decision but it is important that people think what they want and to not be influenced by others. Another example Dan uses to see how people are influencing people into choosing the option they want is when he talks about the Economist Subscription because the creator of the form wants them to choose the one that cost the most because it’s a “better deal.” They are being influential because they are adding an extra option that is pointless. When I was watching that part it made me think of the deals At&t offers, that are "great deals" but then you compare them with other deals and they are not so good. We experience these kinds of things everyday in our lives because everyone tries to influence each other whether it is family, friends, or strangers. I believe propaganda is a major influence in people’s decision-making and if people are not reading carefully and comparing different options they become influenced. Overall, I believe we are responsible for the decisions we make but we are also influenced.
The video was very intriguing and honestly got me to think. I believe that we are in control of our own decisions yet I would also agree that we are extremely easy to influence by nature and can be easily persuaded at times. i think it depends on the person and how strong their will is and how much people's opinions affect them. It's very easy to walk into a restaurant and know what you want to order but then you see the special of the day and instantly change your mind, in that moment you were influenced. I think we can allow people to have control over certain areas, or even our whole life but I believe that is something we give, not something a person can take unless forcefully. Some of us have stronger wills than others which may allow a person to be more influenced and controlled. The video definitely made me think though!
After watching the video I came to the conclusion that we are capable of being in control with the decisions that we make but at the same time our decisions can be influenced by those around us. If you think about it when we are young a lot of the decisions that we make are influenced by our peers, parents, siblings etc. because either they try to convince you to do something and you want to do make them happy by doing what they say. As we get older our decisions are more in our control, we decide whether we want to join for example a club or sport. In some certain situations it is difficult to make decisions and we gather others opinions but at the end of the day the decision you make is yours.
We are in control of our own decisions, but that does not mean our decisions aren't influenced. Dan used plenty of examples that explained how littles things could push you to a certain direction on what you will choose. I've seen the example he used about ugly Jerry and ugly Tom before, and it makes a lot of sense in many other situations. An "other" input could make an impression on a choice to be "better" than the other, but it is simply mind games. Like he said, it's an illusion of the brain. We may be in control of what we decide but it is definitely effected by the options offered that could make us be tricked into choosing.
Before watching the video, I automatically thought that we are in control of our own decisions, when I was done watching it my view had changed. People think they are in control but their mind is being manipulated by their vision. When looking at optical illusions, everyone usually perceives the illusion all the same but incorrectly. I liked the example with the economist subscription to help explain why I don’t think we control our decisions. When we are represented options we make decisions based on what’s offered. When we don’t understand something our decisions are even less in control. Our choices are already preprogrammed based on previous decision making situations. After watching the video and writing some of my response, I can’t help but think about how the video has manipulated me into only agreeing with the speaker. When I try to think of a counter argument, I draw a blank. I think this is a perfect example of how we can be manipulated in decision making. Overall, I want to believe that I am in control of my decisions but I know I can be persuaded and manipulated.
In my opinion, I think I have complete control over my fate. I think I have complete control over my fate because you can determine your fate by choosing your own path in life. It depends on wether you are willing to do this, or to do that in order to determine your own fate. I also think you may not have complete control because of the choices your parents made for you at any times. Sometimes parents may feel it is better for them to choose for their son or daughter although that right there, changed a path in their son or daughters fate. There could be a possibility that our fate could of been chosen for us but in the other hand I believe that our fate is unknown because it depends on the path that we take and the decisions we make.
- Loved this TED Talk! From a cognitive point of view, sometimes we cannot be in control of our own decisions or it can be very difficult due to our chemical imbalances. Some of these imbalances in the brain mean someone with a mental disease can have fewer neurotransmitters than someone who does not. Say the person who has a chemical imbalance has depression, making their decisions can be much tougher than someone who is not depressed, hence why psychiatrists medicate people with poor mental health. Dan made great points, such as us not knowing our preferences well. Sometimes one factor can lead to our decision making. In other words, when we have more that two options, one option can make our decision making easier because it makes us more aware of our preferences. In other words, sometimes we jump at the first decision that seems best, instead of thinking carefully of other options given.
This is a question I'm not sure I have an answer for. After watching this TED talk, I really had to think about this question. Are we really in control of our decisions, or are we so heavily influenced or blinded by our environment, that we actually are forced into a decision? I think we all like to be autonomous, and believe we are in control of our choices and therefore our fate' however, I think Dan made some valid points that often times we are not even aware of how we are being influenced to make our decisions. The mind is extremely clever in the way it influences our perception of things. And I am now sitting here wondering how many decisions I've thought I made for myself, but actually perhaps, did not.
Before watching this video I would have answered absolutely yes, we are in control of our own decisions. After watching this video my eye was really opened up to how many different things influence our decisions and ultimately lead us to make that decision. I thought the physician's example was really interesting. After the decision got a little harder to make, the physicians went with the easier decision. I think everyday we tend to make the easier decision, without really realizing it. Ive always believed I was in control of my life, and now, Im not so sure.
I believe we are in control of making our own decisions. However, I believe, that we as human beings are flawed and can be easily manipulated into making decisions based on a biased agenda. I personally believe, it is essential to educate ourselves and be aware of what is happening around us. To know ourselves well and to know what is right and what is wrong is also very important. Dan's presentation of the power of suggestion was eye opening. I can see how with a "slight of hand" trick people can be swayed. So while I believe that we are in control of our own decisions, some people are not in control.
!!!!NO MEETING THIS SATURDAY!!!! (we will meet later in the semester)
EMAIL: bschmoll@csub.edu
Greetings,
This course has some weekly assignments that you must keep up on. There are also a few other papers and books to read throughout the semester. But if you keep up with the weekly assignments on here, your writing will improve and you will put yourself in a great position to do well in this class!
These are time sensitive. You do not receive credit if you write them after the deadline(Saturday) each week. Furthermore, if you are in the habit of writing everything on Saturday you will not receive full credit. Why? There would be no time for others to interact with your writing. Write early; write often! Right? Right!
HERE IS THE WORK THAT MUST BE COMPLETED EACH WEEK...
FIRST, there's a blog entry (about 250 words) which will have you respond to a hopefully thought-provoking question. Each week, you must do the blog entry with enough time left in the week to be able to enter into dialogue online with your classmates. Write, reply, write more, reply more, and then write and reply more.
SECOND, there's a reading. There’s no blog entry associated with this. Just read.
THIRD, there's a written response to the reading. Your reading and writing on the blog must be completed by the SATURDAY (by midnight) of the week in which the reading falls. This entry should be a long paragraph. YOU DO NOT NEED TO RESPOND TO OTHER STUDENTS IN PART THREE EACH WEEK.
I find distinct parallels between what Dan shared and subliminal messages. Both provoke a response by the power of suggestion, only with Dan's study the power of suggestion was directly before you rather than the slight of hand tricks done in subliminal messaging. Though, I would say the license/organ donor section was more than a slight of hand power of suggestion parlor trick, in that most likely many didn't pay close enough attention to the form, which might deceive me, too, especially if I am rushed or preoccupied in thought. The physician scenario was very, very alarming.
ReplyDeleteAm I in control of my decisions? There was a time I was more easily influenced or swayed, but despite unusual circumstances would say for the most part that I am in control of my decisions. Lack of money makes it easy not to make poor decision. I think those in possession of a weak mind are more susceptible to having their decisions influenced by foreign means.
I too was alarmed and troubled by the physicians, but they are humans also, and are prone to poor decision-making from time to time. Sad but true. Their insurance underwriters would agree, but behind closed doors. Good distinction between subliminal messages and what Dan presented.
DeleteI agree with you Scott, lack of money does make it easy not to make a bad decision. As I wrote on my post, I'm one to always read the small print before signing anything. Also, I'm big on sales...lol.
DeleteTo be honest I believed that we are entitle to make our own decisions good or bad. The way Dan was describing the way certain people and certain countries makes their decisions is mind blowing I liked how he made a lot of examples on decision making. Sometimes I wonder if we’re really in control of our decisions I feel like sometimes people get manipulating into making decisions they don’t want or they feel obligated into making a decision they don’t want. We all have to live with those decisions throughout our entire life it can go either good or it can also go by bad. I also agree that sometimes a person’s decision has to do with their behavior and their environment they are surrounding themselves with. But then yet again, I have my doubts about it, it also occurs to me that most of these people really don’t have control of their lives or sometimes they have just little control. I wish making a life decision was as easy as either eating a burger or a hotdog because you can really choose whatever you want you can even choose both if you really like to. Also mentioning that certain people have little control over their own decisions makes me want to talk about teenagers and young children they don’t have control over anything at this point their parents are the ones who make their decisions for them. So at the end of the day I think that question is an unanswerable question only because you might think you’re making your own decision but in reality you’re not.
ReplyDeleteWell this brought a smile to my face. Are you sure you are making the decision on the hot dog or hamburger, or is it that you were sold the idea on how good either one is and now you perceive you make the decision based on what you were sold in the past (meaning in early childhood)? Go ahead; have that grilled hamburger, but don't let me make that decision for you!
DeleteAlbion, I'm glad I bought a smile to your face and the decision is made I chose the hamburger HA! it was a hard decision but it was ultimately made my me.
DeleteI think it was a great decision also, and I am glad that it was yours and yours alone!
DeleteEven after watching the video I feel that we are still in control of our own decisions. Although, sometimes we are persuaded to make different decisions that are irrational. This is when we essentially act on something too quickly without giving much thought into the topic or issue on hand. A quick decision would be the subscription example that he explained in the video. But at the end of the day, thinking slowly and rationally will lead us in the correct direction of making wise, controlled decisions. We are in control of all decisions we make in life.
ReplyDeleteJason, I too believed that we are entitle to make our own decisions but to me sometimes it feels as if we don't sometimes have any saying in what we have to do or say.
DeleteI agree, I still believe that people are in control, we are in control of the decisions we make in life.
DeleteI think we are in control of our own decision. However, I do think the things around us do influence us. Sometimes it takes a lot of self control and strength to be able to make your own decision 100%. When I first saw the title I thought without a doubt we were in control of our decision. After watching the film, I realized a lot of things that make me so indecisive are actually controlling my decision. I immediately reacted the same one so many did when I saw the $125 online & print deal next to the $125 print only deal. Thinking more about this I realized a majority of my decisions are based on the fact if I feel like I'm getting a good deal or not. I can make decisions much faster if I feel like I'm getting a good bargain. Otherwise, I have a hard time choosing what I actually want. So, like I said before I think we have the power to make our own decisions, but sometimes we are more powerful than other times. I definitely agree that the forces and circumstances around us influence us a lot.
ReplyDeleteI do believe that we are 100 percent in control of our own decisions after watching this video, but I strongly believe the outside environment influences us to make a certain decision. We usually make decisions that have the most benefit to us in the near future. Most people want to see benefits or outcomes right away, so they make the decision that will have almost instantaneous outcome. Being able to think slowly and look for outcomes/benefits that can happen later on down the line can be more important than the choices of in the short term.
ReplyDeleteChristian, yes I too believed that we are entitle to making our own decisions and well I also think that we as humans tend to get influenced outside our circle and outside our lives.
DeleteYour right Christian, I too believe it's better to make a decision after some serious thought while keeping one's future in mind. A thought in impulse will not bring anything good.
DeleteAfter watching this Ted Talk I believe it is highly questionable that we are in control of our decisions. Sure, we are able to choose certain things but as the speaker pointed out, we are only limited to choices. He ends his speech by hoping that humans will be able to understand our cognitive limitations and I would agree. Although we are able to make our choices, it is clear that our choices may be an illusion or a limit. I think this idea can become very complex, since everyone has a different set of beliefs and behavior.
ReplyDeleteTo begin with, I think this was an interesting video; it made me think about our decisions in a different way. After pondering a while on this question, I think I will have to say that we are not in control of our decisions. We do ultimately have the decision on what we decide to do. No matter what our decision is, it is always influenced by something whether you are aware of it or not. My favorite example was the economist one. When there were 3 options, an electronic subscription, paper subscription, and both web and print subscription. He gave it to 100 students and had them pick the best subscription. The option of electronic and print copy was offered for the same price of the print copy. Most students chose the print/electronic option. We as people choose the print/electronic option because we believe it’s a great bundle. When the print copy was removed, and he asked 100 students again, the people started choosing the web option. Why was the web option chosen the most? It was because it was the cheaper option. The people chose the bundle the first time because you got both for the same price as one. When that option was removed, they chose the cheaper one. They were influenced both times, but without knowing it. When we make decisions, we try to weight it out to see what option is the better option or what is best fit for us. Without thinking, we are actually getting influenced by the possible outcomes that we may make if we make that one decision.
ReplyDeleteI think that many times we are not in control of our own decisions. One of the reasons we think that we make our own decisions is because the decision is made at a subconscious level. Our brains love to take the shortest distance between two points. We evolved this way to protect our energy reserves. Prior to civilization as we know it today, we had no idea when or where the next meal would be, so it was important to expend as little energy as possible and gain the maximum results for this expenditure. The brain, being a glucose guzzler, would rather not exert lots of energy on decision-making that does not immediately affect survival. Many times we allow others to make decisions for us with just a little coercion. I had this experience recently at the mall. I asked for a small lemonade, and was promptly told that I could get a medium for just fifty cents more. I asked to see the size of the medium, and as the server showed me the medium, she suggested that it was a better deal if I got the large which was only twenty cents more than the medium. Sounds familiar? Now I thought, what the hell, I only wanted something to wet my throat and now I am being persuaded to buy this monster drink that I could share with at least two cashiers at Macy’s. It did not work on me this time, but without a doubt, I have fallen victim to thoughtless decision-making, due to my brain’s inability, or laziness (thanks to evolution), at a given time in the past. It is just a part of who we are, and when a person starts to feel that this is not them, they should ask themselves; did I truly make that decision for myself, or was I persuaded because of what I believe others may think of me? On a side note, I love the illusions in this video. They help the underscore how fallible we are as humans.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about Freud's Ig, Ego, Super Ego, in regards to the subconscious, too. LOL, I love the "upsizing" story, and glad to hear you stood pat, Albion.
DeleteBefore and after watching this Ted Talk, I do still believe that we have control of our decisions about 50% of the time. This 50% represents the times when we take a decision from a very broad group of choices. The times when we decide our favorite color, the best ice-cream flavor, and the people we want to interact. It will depend on the individual’s personality. The rest of the time, our decisions are limited based on our options. For example, we can decide what store we want to go. Once in the grocery store, we are to decide what brand of bread we are buying. But the store has already decided the brands they want to sell based on profit. So, who has the decision control? Companies makes us to prefer their articles by the way their propaganda is designed. They hire professional people (psychologist most of them) that know how to stimulate our minds, with the intention to persuade us to buy their products, and still makes us believe that we are the ones who make the last desition.
ReplyDeleteEven after watching this video, I believe that we make our own decisions all the time. From simple decisions like choosing what to eat, what to wear, and what to do. To more complex decisions like should I spend my money in this item, should I do this but I might get in trouble, and what is the job I want to work at for the rest of my days. As a young age, the parents might choose the decisions of their children, but sometimes even children decide to make their own decisions. For example, telling a child not to jump of the play structure, but they do it anyways and they get hurt. As a an adult we still make our own decisions. For example, buying something that might not be the best idea, but still buy it and now they are stressing. They are stressing, because they do not know how they might pay it off. I think we all make and choose our own decisions.
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DeleteI think we do make our own decisions all the time but I agree there is a way many brands can influence it. His idea of irrational decisions was so interesting because it is something I never knew. When given a lot of options I think the decision feels more important to us than if we just had two choices, when that's not the case. People like to feel important and believe we make the right decisions. I think really it just depends on the situation, to determine the amount of control we actually have when making a choice. I do agree with the fact that there are always options to choose from, takes away some of our control.
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DeleteAfter watching this video, I feel that we fully make our own decisions. We choose what we do, where we go, etc. Although, I do feel that our environment and the people/things around us have a huge influence on what we decide. Our friends, family, and others give us ideas and show us other concepts that change our mind/behavior. I believe this can be a good or a bad thing. Others can influence us to do better, but they can also push us to do worse. For example, peer pressuring a friend to do drugs or drink alcohol if they don't want to. Like the example in the video, I feel that a lot of times when buying items we worry about getting a good deal and don't pick what we truly would have. Sometimes, we bargain for less than what we would originally decide if the price is cheaper. Overall, I feel that we make our own decisions and it's entirely up to us on what we decide in the end.
ReplyDeleteThe first thought to the question on whether individuals are capable of making own decisions is “yes of course we are responsible for our own actions”. Society always tends to punish or point fingers that are direct at the individual only, stigmatizing all the other effects that could have influence such behaviors. Decision-making is a cognitive aspect of our human behavior. I strongly believe on the statement that economist Dan Ariely is proposing. Dan Ariely states that humans are capable of making their decisions. However, it is the rational decisions that are difficult for us to make or process. When taking into consideration all the decisions we are making we have to consider the influences that are surrounding when we do make irrational decisions. I think we are yet to investigate more of the human mind to be able to report specifically what could we do in terms of rational decision-making. The study of cognitive psychology is still an area of research that is needed. The more the research is conducted, the more professionals understand how complex the human mind is. I defiantly agree with Dan Ariely, in order for us to get better at our rational decision-making we need to first understand our cognitive functions and limitations. The acknowledgement of such limitations will allow designers in important areas in our society to make a better world.
ReplyDeleteThe video was interesting and eye-opening in that I have never heard the topic explained in that way, but I still believe we are in control of our own decisions. Sometimes, people don't care enough about Choice A versus Choice B, so they allow someone else to make the choice for us. We would rather spend time focusing on something else, some decision we have an interest in. It isn’t necessarily that someone takes that choice from us, but rather we give it to them to make. We take the easy way out. For big decisions or things that are important to us individually, we will take the time to think things through. We consider the outcomes of either decision, list the benefits and drawbacks, and eventually come to a conclusion. I believe each choice we need to make is prioritized; we will decide on the more important ones, then if time permits, decide the ones lower on the list.
ReplyDeleteAfter watching the video I found it to be sort of an eye opener because it pointed out certain aspects that I never considered while making decisions myself. Even after watching the video I believe we are still in control of our own decisions but to an extent. I never considered the fact that the decisions we tend to make on a daily basis are affected by certain factors, we seem to let our decisions be influeced by outside forces. For instance, I thought the example he used about the yearly subscriptions was quite interesting because it shows how certain options can influence the choices people make during the process of decision making. It was interesting how removing one choice was able to influence people's decision in a total different manner. It seemed as if having three options balanced them out but narrowing it down to only two seemed to put put more pressure but at the same time make the process of decision making a lot easier. Also the DMV example, how the way in which the donors option was worded in each country has a huge impact on whether people will choose it or not. The examples he mentioned sort of gave me an understanding of how I have personally been influenced by such factors and now that I think back they also influenced the choices I made. I think this has a lot to do with the fact that we tend to let the outside factors influence us rather than choosing what we think is right. Overall, I do think we are all in control of our decisions, however we seem to let minor factors affect the way in which we make those decisions.
ReplyDeleteAfter watching the video I realized we are not in control of our own decisions. For instance, we may make the decisions but behind the decision there may be something causing us to make that decision. For example, in the video Dan referred about the three options people had about getting online access for cheap, then print access for $125 and both for $125. This shows us that depending on the options we have available to us we make decisions. Therefore, we don't have control over our own decisions because the others choose our options and they influence our decisions. Yes, we make the decision but its based off of the best choice depending on what is offered to us.
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DeleteI really think that we are in control of our decisions. This is because every person has an inner mind influence. This inner mind influence is what helps us make our own decisions. However, the external environment tries to modify and influence our decisions. This includes several examples, which Dan Ariely illustrated. An example is based on buying a $59.00 edition, a $129.00 edition, or both editions costing $129.00. Most people would choose the $129.00 double edition package. If this option is eliminated, people would most likely choose the $59.00 edition. I noticed that when new options and criteria are added to a situation, our original thoughts and decisions change (either dramatically or gradually). Dan Ariely gave great examples of optical and cognitive illusions. Some of these examples were humorous, and I enjoyed them a lot. There are people who are in full control of their lives, people who are able to make both good and bad decisions, and people who lose a lot of control of their lives. However, it would be more interesting to wonder, “What makes some people make better decisions, and maintain full control of their own lives?” However, I noticed that it is hard to find the answer to this question. Optical illusions are easier to deal with, but cognitive illusions are a little bit more abstract. Other funny examples include Paris versus Rome, the physicians’ options, Tom/Jerry, and the organ donors on the left versus the ones on the right. Dan Ariely clearly stated that people tend to focus more on the physical aspects of themselves, rather than the cognitive aspects of themselves. He said that if people focus a little more on the cognitive aspects of themselves, the world will be a better environment. Even though this video was a little bit more difficult to understand, I enjoyed it a lot. I am looking forward to seeing it again.
ReplyDeleteI think willpower and positive attitudes are key factors, which shape a person's life.
Roshaan S.
I think the question speaks for itself. It's Our decision to make, no one else's. After watching the Ted talk, I agree that there tends to be many different influences in everyday life. Which alter what and how we decide what decisions we make. But I do not believe that is the primary source of our decisions. I also believe that it truly relays of what type of person we are. For example, person A, can be influenced easily on how to make certain decisions by media or loved ones. While person B, it not. Person B will take the media’s or loved ones consideration but will not be influenced by what decision they ultimately will have to make. Because they understand that at the end of the end of the day it's their lives, their decisions. So yes I do believe we make our own decisions.
ReplyDeleteHI, I agree with your opinion. There are two types of persons, one that is easily influenced and on that is not. I know I'm person B, I do take a loved one's advice into consideration but I ultimately make my own decisions. These decisions will always be based on how they will help me in the present and in my future.
DeleteI really enjoyed watching this video, because it made me think about decision-making in a whole new way. Even after watching this video I do believe that we are still in control of our decisions. However, it is hard to tell especially in today's modern society because there is so much propaganda, commercials and advertising that we don't even think about it. All of these put together our ways to get us to make certain decisions, so how are we to really know whether or not we are really making our own. I think its important that we are able to make our own decisions and think for ourselves.
ReplyDeleteEven after watching the video I still believe we make our own decisions. However, I think the video shows how easily and how much we are influenced. Some people don’t care as much about their decisions so they do what is convenient, which is a way of making their own decisions. They are deciding to do to the most convenient thing; like the example of the organ donors. Or the example with the subscriptions where people make decisions based on how good of a deal they think they are getting. Either way people are making their own decisions in some way.
ReplyDeleteHonestly in my opinion I believe that we are in control of ourselves and we can make any decision that we want to make. After watching this video, I still believe that we are entitled to make our own decisions. Just like dan mentioned in the video, it's hard to accept the idea of the Illusion of us making that decision. As a young person grows they are immediately stuck with the idea that their parents will make a decision for them. Once we are older we still might feel that way and I understand because we are stuck with our parents making decisions for us. The way that Dan was describing all these ways of idea making decisions blew my mind because I had never expanded my mind to think like that. I personally still believe that Ideas are made individually and thats where it goes both ways because everyone has their own opinion.
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ReplyDeleteI believe that we are in control of our own decisions to an extent. Yes, as individuals we have the freedom of choice and thus we can make choices as we like, but in reality how much is it our own decisions? and not someone or something influencing us into making our decisions? Think about it, if it were up to us we probably would not want to work, or go to school, or not do any of the adult responsibilities that we have in our lives. However, we cannot make such choices, as responsibilities are waiting for us. Hence, if we were to decided not to be responsible then there would be consequences, just as every choice we make, whether good or bad. Therefore, in my opinion we are constantly influenced to make our decisions and while we are in control to decide to make those decisions we do not always act upon our own personal wants but on those that are necessary to survive and sustain our lives.
ReplyDeleteEven after watching the video, I hold a firm belief that we are in control of our decisions. I believe that decision-making is a skill that is acquired through practice, as it's a very important thing to have in life. Influence, whether disruptive or beneficial, does not necessarily take us away from our intended goals. In fact, I would say that helps you make your decision overall by closing out options or finding even more optimal decisions along the way. A choice that we originally made might not have been the right one, and there are always many possibilities in what can and cannot be the right decision. Also, the suggestion to say that we are not in control of our own decisions means that is being made by someone else. It's a decision to listen to whomever or whatever sways you, and free will no matter would guide you on what you decide. Options being eliminated can influence this, however. There are many times in competitive games where I am forced to do something, or I lose. Sometimes both the right answer or the wrong answer does not matter either, because it was already an inevitability I would lose anyway. Sometimes situations like that can't be helped.
ReplyDeleteI believe that we are in control of our own decisions. I am totally confident that no one is making decisions for me. The fact is if you think about it that we make hundreds if not thousands of decisions everyday. I think a lot of factors play into your decision making process. Age or experience will have you making a different decision than you did say ten years ago. That doesn't mean you made the wrong decision when you were younger just that you are in a different place now and will make the decision that will best work for you. I think a lot of decisions we make have little repercussion for example, what should I eat for breakfast today? Or what should I wear today. While other decisions require more thought to make sure you find the one that is right for you, like what should I major in? When should I get married? Or when it is time to buy a house. Some people are malleable and can't walk into a store without seeing something to buy because it comes with this, or buying a car because it's new even though their car is only six years old. This was still their decision they just made a poor one for their situation and now have to live with the consequences. I'm a firm believer of you can't outrun your past, that's why it is important to make good decisions today.
ReplyDeleteAfter watching the video I think that we still are in control. I mean at time some of us can be influenced in ways that we are not aware of. But in the end it is ultimately our decisions to make. I guess it also depends in what type of situation we are in. We are constantly making decisions in life like when we are working or in our personal life. There are times you don't have time to think and you have to make a quick decision. I like the example he used with the rubric cube one side was brown and the other seemed to be yellow but in reality they were both the same color. This shows that our judgement can affect a decision we make and it could be wrong. The decisions that we make in our lives is what we have to live with whether they are good or bad this is why we have to think before making an important decisions.
ReplyDeleteI have always felt that I was in control of my own decision but after watching this video I am not so sure. I think how Dan explained the newspaper choices is something that I can relate too. By comparing 3 things and then choosing the best option or picking out of two. Especially with things like bundled internet, home phone and cable, or another example is the buy on get one free stores do. I experienced this at a store the other day, I went in wanting to buy a pair of shorts and I came out with four because they were buy one get one free. I also didn’t thing the shorts were cheap they were $44 each but I ended up spending more than I wanted because of the “sale”. Gimmicks like this are where I think I am not in charge of my decisions but I would like to think that I am.
ReplyDeleteSo, what is it, are you in control of your own decisions?
ReplyDeleteFirst of all I'm not shocked at how easy or minds can be manipulated. I have always been aware that no matter how much I try to make the correct decisions, one thing or another will always be hidden in the small print and will soon bite my behind. This is really disturbing to me, especially when it surrounds my finances. Furthermore, this awareness has always contributed to my stress when it comes to things like: credit cards, auto and house purchases, or basically anything that has to do with loans. We all know we can’t get anywhere in life with bad credit, so I have always tried to be as careful as I can to protect mine. We have to be really careful and read everything before signing any form that is given to us. I know it is a real time burden, but at least we have a better chance at not being slapped with anything in the long run. This is just like the example that Dan brought up from the DMV. A simple word change, made those that are most likely not in accordance with to sign up as organ donors. They probably even go on with there lives not even realizing it. There are also a lot of people out there trying to get their commission one way or another, so we all just need to keep our guard up and be really careful. I know I always will!
I believe that our mind is controlled built the things that are going on with our surrounding. The society as a whole creates this standards that we as people think that we have to be a par with. I believe that in some way our descision making skills is ours in some way and in some way we are controlled by some things. For example, you might want to do somethings like rally want to do it but society says it's wrong. So you decide not to do it, there is one example that we are not in control of the things that we want to decide upon. Also, I believe that if we take out the standard that society has implemented I believe that we can take control of our own decision. This goes back to ethical issue where are we destined to some life or some standard or there is a higher power that controls us and that our life has been written. I believe that in some way we are destined and in someway we are free to make our decision. I believe that it's 50, 50 &' some way.
ReplyDeleteSorry I've been out of town, traveling for work.
Deletegood to see you on here!
DeleteI've pondered this question quite a lot lately. After watching the video I honestly believe that I am in control of my decisions about eighty percent of the time. Often times, my decisions are influenced by the environment/situation around me. Society has set certain standards for us that subconsciously we obey by them. But the majority of the time I make decisions solely by me. Whether it involves work, school, or family, I am in control of my thought and decision process.
ReplyDeleteI believe that we are and we aren't in control of our decisions. Our decisions are most of all controlled by our initial environment. On top of that the way we are raised through childhood and our peers have a big impact on our decision making. We often make our own decisions but deep down they pertain to those important individuals in your life and the decision you think they would want you to make. Overall we make our own decisions but its the influences on them that actually control them.
ReplyDeleteFor me I believe when we are put into difficult situations we make decisions that are influenced by our environment. If it is a drastic decision and needs to be made quickly we may just pick what seems right in the moment and not think about how it'll affect us in the long run. The people around us also influence our decisions. But we are in control of our choices, but it can get difficult when our surroundings interfere.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed being presented with all of the scenarios that he came up with like with the ugly photoshopped versions of the guys. I do agree that if we are presented with a more undesirable option, we will be influenced to choose the option that others actually want us to choose. Ultimately, I do think that we are in control of our own decisions if we are thinking critically. If we are able to think critically, we can assess and test the ways we are being influenced by other factors in this world. We can assess the pros and the cons and make an informative decision. Being influenced is inevitable. We ultimately get to decide what we do because of that influence, even if the influence is not obvious like the ugly photoshopped guys. So in some ways, we are in control of our thinking because we can easily distinguish the influence we are being presented with, but in other ways, the influence in so subtle and we don't even notice. Very interesting to think about. The video made me want to think even more critically about things I am presented with in the future.
ReplyDeleteAfter watching the video I still believe that we are in control of our own decisions. Also, I think that people do have an influence in our decision making because Dan did say that people in the DMV sometimes phrase something differently since there is a lot of people that do not read things carefully and they can achieve their purpose. If a person chooses not to read carefully that is their decision. I was impressed how other countries manipulate people to making a decision but it is important that people think what they want and to not be influenced by others. Another example Dan uses to see how people are influencing people into choosing the option they want is when he talks about the Economist Subscription because the creator of the form wants them to choose the one that cost the most because it’s a “better deal.” They are being influential because they are adding an extra option that is pointless. When I was watching that part it made me think of the deals At&t offers, that are "great deals" but then you compare them with other deals and they are not so good. We experience these kinds of things everyday in our lives because everyone tries to influence each other whether it is family, friends, or strangers. I believe propaganda is a major influence in people’s decision-making and if people are not reading carefully and comparing different options they become influenced. Overall, I believe we are responsible for the decisions we make but we are also influenced.
ReplyDeleteThe video was very intriguing and honestly got me to think. I believe that we are in control of our own decisions yet I would also agree that we are extremely easy to influence by nature and can be easily persuaded at times. i think it depends on the person and how strong their will is and how much people's opinions affect them. It's very easy to walk into a restaurant and know what you want to order but then you see the special of the day and instantly change your mind, in that moment you were influenced. I think we can allow people to have control over certain areas, or even our whole life but I believe that is something we give, not something a person can take unless forcefully. Some of us have stronger wills than others which may allow a person to be more influenced and controlled. The video definitely made me think though!
ReplyDeleteAfter watching the video I came to the conclusion that we are capable of being in control with the decisions that we make but at the same time our decisions can be influenced by those around us. If you think about it when we are young a lot of the decisions that we make are influenced by our peers, parents, siblings etc. because either they try to convince you to do something and you want to do make them happy by doing what they say. As we get older our decisions are more in our control, we decide whether we want to join for example a club or sport. In some certain situations it is difficult to make decisions and we gather others opinions but at the end of the day the decision you make is yours.
ReplyDeleteWe are in control of our own decisions, but that does not mean our decisions aren't influenced. Dan used plenty of examples that explained how littles things could push you to a certain direction on what you will choose. I've seen the example he used about ugly Jerry and ugly Tom before, and it makes a lot of sense in many other situations. An "other" input could make an impression on a choice to be "better" than the other, but it is simply mind games. Like he said, it's an illusion of the brain. We may be in control of what we decide but it is definitely effected by the options offered that could make us be tricked into choosing.
ReplyDeleteBefore watching the video, I automatically thought that we are in control of our own decisions, when I was done watching it my view had changed. People think they are in control but their mind is being manipulated by their vision. When looking at optical illusions, everyone usually perceives the illusion all the same but incorrectly. I liked the example with the economist subscription to help explain why I don’t think we control our decisions. When we are represented options we make decisions based on what’s offered. When we don’t understand something our decisions are even less in control. Our choices are already preprogrammed based on previous decision making situations. After watching the video and writing some of my response, I can’t help but think about how the video has manipulated me into only agreeing with the speaker. When I try to think of a counter argument, I draw a blank. I think this is a perfect example of how we can be manipulated in decision making. Overall, I want to believe that I am in control of my decisions but I know I can be persuaded and manipulated.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, I think I have complete control over my fate. I think I have complete control over my fate because you can determine your fate by choosing your own path in life. It depends on wether you are willing to do this, or to do that in order to determine your own fate. I also think you may not have complete control because of the choices your parents made for you at any times. Sometimes parents may feel it is better for them to choose for their son or daughter although that right there, changed a path in their son or daughters fate. There could be a possibility that our fate could of been chosen for us but in the other hand I believe that our fate is unknown because it depends on the path that we take and the decisions we make.
ReplyDelete- Loved this TED Talk!
ReplyDeleteFrom a cognitive point of view, sometimes we cannot be in control of our own decisions or it can be very difficult due to our chemical imbalances. Some of these imbalances in the brain mean someone with a mental disease can have fewer neurotransmitters than someone who does not. Say the person who has a chemical imbalance has depression, making their decisions can be much tougher than someone who is not depressed, hence why psychiatrists medicate people with poor mental health. Dan made great points, such as us not knowing our preferences well. Sometimes one factor can lead to our decision making. In other words, when we have more that two options, one option can make our decision making easier because it makes us more aware of our preferences. In other words, sometimes we jump at the first decision that seems best, instead of thinking carefully of other options given.
This is a question I'm not sure I have an answer for. After watching this TED talk, I really had to think about this question. Are we really in control of our decisions, or are we so heavily influenced or blinded by our environment, that we actually are forced into a decision? I think we all like to be autonomous, and believe we are in control of our choices and therefore our fate' however, I think Dan made some valid points that often times we are not even aware of how we are being influenced to make our decisions. The mind is extremely clever in the way it influences our perception of things. And I am now sitting here wondering how many decisions I've thought I made for myself, but actually perhaps, did not.
ReplyDeleteBefore watching this video I would have answered absolutely yes, we are in control of our own decisions. After watching this video my eye was really opened up to how many different things influence our decisions and ultimately lead us to make that decision. I thought the physician's example was really interesting. After the decision got a little harder to make, the physicians went with the easier decision. I think everyday we tend to make the easier decision, without really realizing it. Ive always believed I was in control of my life, and now, Im not so sure.
ReplyDeleteI believe we are in control of making our own decisions. However, I believe, that we as human beings are flawed and can be easily manipulated into making decisions based on a biased agenda. I personally believe, it is essential to educate ourselves and be aware of what is happening around us. To know ourselves well and to know what is right and what is wrong is also very important. Dan's presentation of the power of suggestion was eye opening. I can see how with a "slight of hand" trick people can be swayed. So while I believe that we are in control of our own decisions, some people are not in control.
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