MINDSETMonths to result

Bounded Rationality Framework

The limits of human decision-making

Problem it solves

limiting beliefs

Best for

Understanding the limitations of human decision-making

Not ideal for

Situations requiring optimal decision-making

Overview

Why this framework exists

This framework explains how humans are limited in their ability to process information and make optimal decisions, due to cognitive constraints such as attention and memory.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Humans are limited in their ability to process information.
  2. Cognitive constraints such as attention and memory impact decision-making.
  3. Humans use heuristics and mental shortcuts to make decisions.

Steps

2 steps
  1. Recognize Cognitive Limitations
    Be aware of the cognitive constraints that impact decision-making, such as attention and memory.
    Pro tipConsider the potential for cognitive biases and heuristics to impact decision-making.
    WarningBe cautious of the potential for cognitive limitations to lead to suboptimal decisions.
  2. Use Decision-Making Strategies
    Use strategies such as decision trees or cost-benefit analysis to support decision-making.
    Pro tipConsider the potential for these strategies to help mitigate cognitive limitations.
    WarningBe aware of the potential for these strategies to be imperfect and require ongoing evaluation.

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
The South Seas Trading Market

Isaac Newton's investment in the South Seas Trading Market was driven in part by his failure to consider cognitive limitations, leading to significant losses.

OutcomeNewton's experience highlights the importance of considering cognitive limitations in decision-making.

Common mistakes

1 traps
Ignoring Cognitive Limitations
Failing to consider cognitive limitations can lead to suboptimal decisions.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of bounded rationality was first introduced by Herbert Simon, who argued that humans are limited in their ability to process information and make optimal decisions.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
How to Make Better Decisions | Dr. Michael Platt
Andrew Huberman · 2025
Open source →

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