What we are doing in this class is more than just writing papers, reading texts, and developing better habits for both. We are introducing students to a tool. We are trying to demonstrate a fundamental way human minds work.
Here is where I will try to demonstrate.
Real World Example #1
In arguments about blame, there is a really common dirty trick. When confronted about a mistake or about failure, many people will respond with, "oh yeah? What about the time when you did X?" This is an attempt to feel better about a mistake. Noone likes to make mistakes or let people down. However, instead of saying "I screwed up" people use a comparison to change how they feel about a mistake.
Real World Example #2
Why is it so easy to get fat? I'll make this personal. Why was it so easy for me to get fat? The reason involves compare/contrast. If I got a little bit fatter every day, I couldn't see it. I couldn't notice it. The only time I got a signal about it was when suddenly, old clothes didn't fit.
Real World Example #3
When salesmen are showing customers products, they are taught to show some products first. Do they show the cheapest items first? No. They show the expensive items first. Why do they do that? It isn't just because they want to make large commissions. It is because of the way the mind works. The contrast between products makes the prices and the quality of the products look differently.
Real World Example #4
Before and after photos for weight loss programs.
Two thought provoking questions
1. Would a Steelers fan or a Bengals fan enjoy a Superbowl victory more?
2. When is the best day to give your girlfriend flowers? Which day would help her appreciate them more?
"Only some differences make a difference."
Examples
Tasting OJ After Toothpaste
Weight- Batting After using a Batting Donut
What does tall mean?
What does expensive mean?
Applications
Want to convince me x is a problem? Compare it to something I already hate.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment