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Economist Quote by Daniel Gilbert

“Psychologists call this habituation, economists call it declining marginal utility, and the rest of us call it marriage.” quote by Daniel Gilbert
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“Psychologists call this habituation, economists call it declining marginal utility, and the rest of us call it marriage.”

Daniel Gilbert

About This Quote

Source Interview, 2014

People experience diminishing satisfaction in repeated experiences, yet we often repeat them in relationships.

In simple terms: Repeated things become less rewarding, but we still do them.

Key Takeaway

Recognize diminishing returns.

Themes

relationships psychology economics

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

psychological sociological

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • consumer behavior
  • habit formation

Key Concepts

habituation utility theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we stay in unsatisfying patterns?
  • How can novelty be reintroduced?
A Different Perspective

Not all repeats are negative; some provide stability.

2.3 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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