Skip to content

In the field of behavioral economics, neoliberalism allows…

“In the field of behavioral economics, neoliberalism allows that human behavior often deviates from the model of Homo economicus. The deviations considered, however, focus on the ways in which passions and perceptual distortions fail to maximize utility as the model demands. The model is the ideal…” quote by Susan Neiman
Download Open image
““In the field of behavioral economics, neoliberalism allows that human behavior often deviates from the model of Homo economicus. The deviations considered, however, focus on the ways in which passions and perceptual distortions fail to maximize utility as the model demands. The model is the ideal: behavioral economics emphasizes the ways in which we fall short of it. The question of whether the model falls short of us is rarely raised.””

Susan Neiman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Neoliberalism assumes rational actors, but real people act on passions and biases, so the ideal model often misfits human behavior.

In simple terms: People aren't perfectly rational; emotions and perception distort decisions.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of rational models.

Themes

economics behavioral science philosophy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

theoretical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy design
  • marketing
  • personal finance
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

rationality utility human bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do emotions shape economic choices?
  • Can models be adapted to human reality?
A Different Perspective

Models may oversimplify complex motivations.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Susan Neiman

Explore all 38 Susan Neiman quotes

More Behavioral economics quotes

Browse all 28 Behavioral economics quotes