Dan Ariely

Non-fiction

Difficulty level: easy

Predictably Irrational begins with an introduction that transports you into the world of behavioural economics, outlining the growing usefulness of the field in the economic world. However, despite the slightly term-heavy short start, Ariely then leads the reader into fascinating explanations of how we are systematically irrational in our behaviour and make sub-optimal choices that negatively impact us, despite what we try to believe. This book explores the notions of relativity, the power of the word ‘free’, how owning something makes it far for valuable, and the misconceptions of supply and demand to name just a few of the many captivating topics discussed. These  subjects are completely engrossing, as you being to understand how simple everyday situations completely alter our entire behaviour and decision making process. It unpicks many things in society that are often overlooked and just seen as normal, revealing how irrational and malleable to our enviroment we really are.

The author, an MIT professor, lays out the book in an extremely reader friendly way, writing very informally and as if he was talking to you personally, making it even more enthralling. Ariely conducts many social experiments himself, which he outlines in the book, and really brings to life the concepts that he discusses. Not only are these topics fascinating, but are very useful in the real world: in economics, important decision making and regular life, making it a beneficial read as well.

All in all, I would really recommend Predictably Irrational for all, as introduces multiple, very interesting themes which also beneficial for the reader in real-life situations.

– Molly Light