Changing Your Mind: The Science of Metacognition
The science of metacognition may eventually help people train their minds to make better choices.
The Monty Hall Problem
Imagine a game show where the host asks the contestant to randomly pick one option out of three: A, B or C. After the contestant chooses, the host reveals that one of the remaining choices does not contain the prize.
- The contestant is asked to choose an option (A, B, or C)
- The host reveals that one of the remaining choices does not contain the prize
- The contestant is asked whether they want to change their mind and select the remaining option or stick with their original choice
The Monty Hall problem has entertained mathematicians for decades.
Improving Choice Outcomes
There is robust evidence that changes of mind tend to improve choice outcomes. So why are we often so reluctant to do it?
An understudied mental technique for falling asleep involves thinking of random words.
Author's summary: Metacognition can help improve choices.