Modern Automaticity

Our reliance on mental shortcuts is increasing as the modern world becomes more complex. We are constantly bombarded with information, and we do not have the time or the mental capacity to process all of it. Therefore, we must rely on mental shortcuts to help us make decisions.

This is what is known as "modern automaticity." It is the tendency to make decisions based on a single piece of information, even when we have access to more information. This is a necessary adaptation to the modern world, but it can also be dangerous.

When we rely on a single piece of information, we are more likely to make a mistake. This is because a single piece of information is often not enough to make an informed decision. The weapons of influence described in this book are all examples of modern automaticity. They are all based on a single piece of information that we use to make decisions.

The key to defending ourselves against these weapons of influence is to be aware of them. When we are aware of them, we can take a step back and think about whether we are making a decision based on a single piece of information or whether we are taking the time to make an informed decision.