Description
Book SynopsisThis text, written by a philosopher and a social psychologist, emphasizes concrete applications of decision research to problems of everyday living, as well as to business, social, and political issues. The text contains scores of interesting examples and problems for analysis, ranging from personal decisions about medical treatment to Truman''s decision to use the atomic bomb. There is no other text with such a wide-ranging coverage, with so practical an orientation, with such clear descriptions of the steps to effective decision making, and with so many end-of-chapter problems for analysis and practice.
Trade ReviewThis textbook provides students with the opportunity to learn sound strategies and tactics to employ in decision making without sacrificing scholarly virtues. . . . A highly accessible discussion of cognitive illusions and other psychological impediments to sound decision practices. -- Bruce Umbaugh, Webster University
This excellent introduction to decision making manages to combine clarity of exposition with sophistication of analysis. The beginning student for whom it is intended will find it at once accessible and thought-provoking. -- Nicholas Rescher
The inclusion of some social psychological material plus a chapter on bargaining and negotiation makes this text less limited than other[s]. . . . If [the instructor's] objective is to expose students to a text that is quite strong in the practical aspects of decision making, this book would be an excellent choice. * Contemporary Psychology *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Psychological Hinderances to Effective Decision Making Chapter 3 Evaluating Complex Outcomes Chapter 4 Reasoning About Causes Chapter 5 How to Think About Risk Chapter 6 Risky Decisions With Complex Outcomes Chapter 7 Decision Making Among Rational Competitors Chapter 8 Bargaining and Negotiations Chapter 9 Appendices: Measurement and Utility Chapter 10 Alternative Decision Rules Chapter 11 Mixed Strategies in 2 X 2 Games Chapter 12 Bargaining in Three Person Games
