Why smart people do stupid thingsWhy smart people do stupid things
All In The Mind
Smart people are not only just as prone to making mistakes as everyone else—they may even be more susceptible to them. This idea has been dubbed the Intelligence Trap. It explains the flaws in our understanding of intelligence and expertise, and how the decisions of even the brightest minds and talented organisations can backfire.
29:06•19 May 2019
The Intelligence Trap: Why Smart People Make Mistakes
“Your intelligence can actually help you to cover up your own mistakes, and it can really push you down this path where your errors are amplified as a result.”
Ever wondered why even the brightest minds sometimes make baffling mistakes? In this episode of 'All In The Mind', science journalist and author David Robson dives into a fascinating concept called the Intelligence Trap. He explains how intelligence and expertise can sometimes lead to poor decisions and greater biases. Robson explores practical intelligence, rationality, memory, and decision-making, showing how these traits can either shield us from or push us deeper into error.
He also highlights the importance of a growth mindset, which encourages continuous learning and adaptability. Robson shares eye-opening examples, such as the corporate culture behind the Deepwater Horizon disaster and how political evaluations might be missing the mark on what truly constitutes intelligence. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about how to become a better decision-maker and avoid the pitfalls of the Intelligence Trap.
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