Hack 74. Maintain the Status Quo (3)
7.6.1. In Action
I’m going to tell you in advance that the two versions of the problem are logically identical, but I knowbecause your brain evolved in the same way mine didthat you’ll feel as if you want to answer them differently despite knowing this. If your supreme powers of reason don’t let you feel the tug induced by the superficial features of the problem (the bit that conveys the bias), take the two versions and present them to two different friends.
Here we go . . .
7.6.1.1 Version 1
A lethal disease is spreading through the city of which you are mayor. It is expected to kill 600 people. Your chief medical adviser tells you that there is a choice between two treatment plans. The first strategy will definitely save 200 people, whereas the second strategy has a one-third chance of saving 600 people and a two-thirds chance of saving no one. Which strategy do you choose?
7.6.1.2 Version 2
A lethal disease is spreading through the city of which you are mayor. It is expected to kill 600 people. Your chief medical adviser tells you that there is a choice between two treatment plans. The first strategy will definitely kill 400 people, whereas the second strategy has a one-third chance that nobody will die and a two-thirds chance that 600 people will die.
Do you feel it? The choices feel different, even though you know they are the same. What’s going on?
Taken from : Mind Hacks
