Will People Believe Anything? The Psychology of Gullibility October 10, 2008

Do you believe it is bad luck to call attention to success or to name a baby before it is born? Has a fad diet ever caught your attention, only to disappoint you when it doesn't work? Have you ever half-believed the phrase, "bad things come in 3's?" These are just a few instances where our all-too-human judgment and superstition infect our everyday lives.

Our past experiences, predictable biases, and limited ability to process vast amounts of information all too often guide-and distort-our beliefs. In a informal Science Café, organized by the Foundation for the Advancement of Behavioral and Brain Sciences (www.fabbs.org), Thomas D. Gilovich, PhD (Cornell University) will present the latest research on experiences such as seeing order in randomness, superstition, and wishful thinking, as well as many other human frailties. Gilovich will also discuss how to cultivate more sound reasoning and effective decision-making.

DATE
October 10, 2008
6:00pm Reception
6:45pm Lecture

DRESS CODE
Business Casual attire: No jeans, sneakers, or shorts, please.

ADMISSION
To RSVP for your free tickets, please email sschwark@fabbs.org. Space is limited.

Sponsored by the American Psychological Association.

The content of presentations made at FABBS' events does not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the FABBS board nor its donors.

Official Website: http://www.fabbs.org/Events/Oct_2008_Cafe/index.html