Predictably Irrational

The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions

by Dan Ariely

PaperbackFirst published 2008Psychology★★★★★ 3.5 (4 reviews)

Why read it

Story-driven experiments showing that our mistakes follow patterns. A quick, light read that makes pricing pages and free trials look very different afterwards.

Key ideas

1. "Free" is not just a low price. It changes how we weigh every other option.
2. Adding a clearly worse option can make a nearby option look like a bargain.
3. Social norms and market norms clash when money enters a relationship.