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Irving L. Janis Books

1 book·~10 min total read

Janis (1918–1990) was an American research psychologist best known for his theory of groupthink and studies on decision making.

Known for: Decisions About Decisions: The Art of Decision Making

Books by Irving L. Janis

Decisions About Decisions: The Art of Decision Making

Decisions About Decisions: The Art of Decision Making

cognition·10 min read

This influential work explores the psychological processes underlying decision making, particularly under conditions of stress and uncertainty. Janis and Mann analyze how individuals and groups evaluate alternatives, manage risk, and cope with the consequences of their choices. The book introduces the concept of 'vigilant decision making' and provides a framework for understanding both rational and maladaptive decision patterns.

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Key Insights from Irving L. Janis

1

Traditional Models and Their Limitations

Early theories of decision-making portrayed people as perfectly rational agents—calculating probabilities, weighing costs and benefits, and selecting the option that maximized utility. This classical model, elegant in theory, assumed that human cognition operates like a flawless computer. It disrega...

From Decisions About Decisions: The Art of Decision Making

2

The Core Concept: Vigilant Decision-Making

Vigilant decision-making is our proposed ideal—the process through which an individual or group systematically seeks information, thoroughly evaluates alternatives, anticipates the consequences of each option, and remains responsive to feedback. Vigilance is not about being perpetually nervous or ca...

From Decisions About Decisions: The Art of Decision Making

About Irving L. Janis

Janis (1918–1990) was an American research psychologist best known for his theory of groupthink and studies on decision making.

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Janis (1918–1990) was an American research psychologist best known for his theory of groupthink and studies on decision making.

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