Our decision making patterns are based on multiple foundations. The new WB report summarises them in three sources: automatic, social and mental models. In chapter 8 you'll find applications to health. Some of them may be naive, while others potentially useful. There is a trial and error process in all this stuff because of cultural implications. If there is a particular area to focus on, it is on health communication for behavioural change. There is a lot to learn from behavioral economics:
Understanding that people think automatically, interpret the world based on implicit mental models, and think socially allows policy makers to make major strides in improving health outcomes. Individuals sometimes value information highly (for example,PS. My former posts on nudging
when seeking curative care), but at other times providing information is not sufficient to get people to change behaviors that undermine health. Framing effects that make social expectations and social approval more salient can sometimes encourage individuals to seek preventive care and adhere to treatment when they otherwise would not, even though the individual benefits exceed the individual cost.
PS. Post by BIT.
PS. TE on poor behavior.
PS. Excellent "30minuts" documentary about the Snowden's massive information leak ever. (Only until Dec 28th)
