Good behavior Quote by Richard H. Thaler
““Often we can do more to facilitate good behavior by removing some small obstacle than by trying to shove people in a certain direction.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness by Richard H. Thaler & Cass R. Sunstein, 2008
Small barriers can be more effective than forceful nudges in guiding behavior, highlighting the power of simplifying choices.
In simple terms: Tiny obstacles often change behavior more than direct pushes.
Key Takeaway
Use minor obstacles to guide good habits.
Themes
behavioral economics
choice architecture
nudging
Mood
analytical
practical
Type
educational
strategic
When to use this quote
- policy design
- health programs
- financial planning
Key Concepts
friction
default options
habit formation
Questions to Reflect On
- What minor obstacle could improve a habit?
- When might a nudge be insufficient?
A Different Perspective
Overly simplifying may limit autonomy.
![“[T]here are some human rights that are so deep that we can't negotiate them away. I mean people do heinous, terrible things. But there are basic human rights I believe that every human being has. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in the United Nations says it for me. And it says there are…” quote by Sister Helen Prejean](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5c4/sister-helen-prejean-94083_an-eye-for-an-eye_t-here-are-some-human-rights-that-are-so_222080.jpg)