Nudge: The Final Edition

publicity principle.16 In its simplest form, the publicity principle suggests that no choice architect in the public or private sector should adopt a policy that she would not be able or willing to defend publicly.

The authors of the study conclude that the most effective form of training would be delivered on a “just in time” basis—that is, in anticipation of a pending decision.

The problem with most slippery slope arguments is that they do not provide any evidence of an actual slope:

To us, the directions from a GPS device are perfect nudges. Even if the nice, polite voice suggests a right turn, the voice does not complain if we decide to continue going straight.

Consider a class of regulations requiring “cooling-off periods.” The rationale is that in the heat of the moment, consumers might make ill-considered or improvident decisions. Self-control problems are the underlying concern.

Often people choose not to choose, and we should respect their choice.

(a) people make the relevant decisions infrequently and therefore lack a great deal of experience and (b) emotions are likely to be running high.

of extremeness aversion: people tend to prefer options in the middle.

designed to help people find the right means to their own ends.