Cognitive Science and Decision Making

About this course

The course takes a comprehensive view of the cognitive psychology and neuroscience approaches towards decision making. The aim of the course is to introduce students to the principles of rational thinking and to increase awareness of the fundamental factors that bound human rationality.On one hand, we will study the constraints on human cognitive capabilities that lead to biased thinking and heuristic decision making. The neuroscience perspective will help us understand how the brain processes information in order to make decisions. The cognitive psychology perspective will shed light on the role of personality, emotions, cognitive style and schemas in individual reasoning.On the other hand, we will analyze constraints in the environment that stem from risk and uncertainty, groupthink, time pressure, information deficit and noise.Each topic will include practical tips on how to apply the knowledge outside the classroom and improve the quality of individual judgement and choices. Additionally, students will engage in interactive exercises, case studies, discussions, and quizzes to reinforce learning, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of how cognitive principles influence everyday personal and professional decisions, ultimately helping them become more effective, confident, and reflective decision-makers. Students will also learn practical strategies to recognize and overcome common cognitive traps in real-life situations.

Course objectives

• increase awareness of human rationality constraints
• explore the neuroscience of decision making
• provide practical tips for improving judgment