Week 6: Reasoning Flashcards
What is the normative way of reasoning?
Formal logic and probability
What is formal logic?
This is a system of calculating where our conclusions follow from a set of facts and the connections between them.
How do we test formal logic in psychology?
Studies focus on inferences that are objectively true at all times
Facts typically have 2 values such as true/false or odd/even
What is the flaw in how we test formal logic in psychology?
Real life problems are rarely dichotamous so it doesn’t generalise to natural spaces
How do we use probability as a normative method of reasoning?
We conclude based on the most likely option such as a doctor diagnosing a patient. We then update our intial beliefs as new information is presented
How is normative reasoning different to reasoning in real life?
We don’t always use logical rules
What is the mental model theory of reasoning?
When presented with the facts, we run through all the possabilities in our heads
If the conclusion is true in every scenario, it’s a valid conclusion
What is relational reasoning?
When not presented with the direct facts, they can be inferred by looking at similar objects. For example, assuming one animal is bigger than another
What are causal mental models?
When we are aware of causal relationships between objects, we draw inferences between them which are not always accurate
What is the evidence that humans reason in irrational ways?
People deviate from normative solutions for tasks in their decision making and reasoning
What is the weakness of rationality studies in labs?
They provide too much information for us to process analytically so we focus on our biases instead
Who came up with Bounded Rationality?
Simon
What is bounded rationality?
We find optimal solutions given the constraints of cognition and the environment. Heuristics is used to make effective decisions and are not inherantly biased
What is the dual process theory of reasoning?
We use two systems when making decisions
What is system 1 in the dual process theory of reasoning?
Unconscious Automatic Low effort Contextialised Emotive Doesn't use working memory
What is system 2 in the dual process theory of reasoning?
Explicit Controlled High effort Analytical Abstract Limited by intelligence
In the dual process theory of reasoning, how can conflict and problems arise in our reasoning?
If S1 and S2 are at odds with each other
What evidence is there for the dual process theory of reasoning?
Heuristic responses are fast and analytic responses are slow
Fast response deadlines prevent analytic thinking
Conflict problems occur when heuristics are biased
What is the effect of working memory load on the dual process theory of reasoning?
Additional load prevents analytic thinking and reduces our accuracy on conflict problems
What is the cognitive reflection test?
People who use S1 thinking are more prone to bias
High scores = high analytic thinking
What is true for people who score lower on the cognitive reflection test?
Rate pseudo-profound statements as deeply meaningful
Belive in ghosts and conspiracy theories
Less likely to believe in evolution
How do we decide when to use S1 and S2?
If we’re already fluent in a subject, we use S1, if not, we use S2
What is deontological morality?
Moral judgements should be based on rights and duties
What is utilitarian morality?
We weigh up the costs and benifits for the greater good
