A psychological phenomenon known as the escalation of…
![“A psychological phenomenon known as the escalation of commitment has been shown to make our brains do all sorts of funny things. The power of commitment makes some people play video games until they keel over and die.[c] It is used to influence people to give more to charity.[ci] It has even been…” quote by Nir Eyal](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/888/nir-eyal-1258_loyalty_a-psychological-phenomenon-known-as-the_1016643.jpg)
““A psychological phenomenon known as the escalation of commitment has been shown to make our brains do all sorts of funny things. The power of commitment makes some people play video games until they keel over and die.[c] It is used to influence people to give more to charity.[ci] It has even been used to coerce prisoners of war into switching allegiances.[cii] The commitments we make have a powerful effect on us and play an important role in the things we do, the products we buy, and the habits we form.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Commitment can bias decisions, leading people to persist in costly actions despite negative outcomes.
In simple terms: Commitment can trap us in bad choices.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and reassess commitments regularly.
Themes
psychology
decision-making
behavior
commitment
escalation
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
analytical
insightful
When to use this quote
- marketing campaigns
- charity fundraising
- gaming habits
- military persuasion
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
self‑control
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you continue a habit because of past investment?
- How can you set safe to avoid escalation?
A Different Perspective
Commitment may be overridden by strong external incentives.