--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: What we learn from behavior economics is…" description: "\"“What we learn from behavior economics is that the moment a metric is created it generates an incentive for people to pursue it.”\" — David Amerland" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/dac/david-amerland-12575_economics_what-we-learn-from-behavior-economics-is_2406472.jpg" --- # What we learn from behavior economics is that the moment a… ![“What we learn from behavior economics is that the moment a metric is created it generates an incentive for people to pursue it.” quote by David Amerland](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/dac/david-amerland-12575_economics_what-we-learn-from-behavior-economics-is_2406472.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/dac/david-amerland-12575_economics_what-we-learn-from-behavior-economics-is_2406472.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/dac/david-amerland-12575_economics_what-we-learn-from-behavior-economics-is_2406472.jpg) > ““What we learn from behavior economics is that the moment a metric is created it generates an incentive for people to pursue it.”” [David Amerland](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/david-amerland/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Creating a metric instantly shapes behavior by turning it into a target to chase. **In simple terms:** Metrics become incentives. Key Takeaway Design metrics carefully. Themes economics incentives measurement behavior policy Mood analytical cautious Type observational critical When to use this quote - business strategy - public policy - personal productivity - marketing campaigns - education assessment Key Concepts principal‑agent problem goal‑setting performance bias Questions to Reflect On - How might this metric change the behavior you want? - What unintended consequences could arise? 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