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Choice Quote by Sheena Iyengar

“Like the swimming rats in Richter’s experiment, we can survive for only so long without solid ground beneath our feet; if the choices aren’t real, sooner or later we will go under. It’s important, therefore, that we examine our assumptions about choice and that we openly discuss how, when and why…” quote by Sheena Iyengar
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““Like the swimming rats in Richter’s experiment, we can survive for only so long without solid ground beneath our feet; if the choices aren’t real, sooner or later we will go under. It’s important, therefore, that we examine our assumptions about choice and that we openly discuss how, when and why it falls short.””

Sheena Iyengar

About This Quote

Source Talk: The Art of Choosing, 2010

Without solid foundations, unrealistic choices lead to failure; we must scrutinize assumptions about choice.

In simple terms: Bad choices crumble without firm ground.

Key Takeaway

Question your choice assumptions.

Themes

decision making psychology uncertainty

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • personal relationships
  • policy design

Key Concepts

choice architecture assumption testing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions underlie your recent decisions?
  • When do you feel your choices lack grounding?
A Different Perspective

Sometimes choices are constrained by external limits.

4.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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