Predictably, I liked Dan Ariely’s previous book Predictably Irrational (2008), so when I saw The Upside of Irrationality (2010) I decided to buy it.
In Predictably Irrational Dan explained the reasons for us being irrational beings and what they stem from. The book was well written, easy to read, and accompanied by numerous experiments performed together with his research colleagues.
In The Upside of Irrationality Dan continues his explanation of our irrationality and why it is good that we are wired this way. This book is also well written, once again with numerous experiments designed to examine how and why – truthfully, maybe a few experiments too many – I got a slight “overdose” feeling even though I read the previous book over 6 months ago.
Some questions that are answered include:
– Why large bonuses can make CEOs less productive?
– How can confusing directions actually help us?
– Why is revenge so important to us?
Well worth reading and I look forward to his future books.
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