Predictable Irrationality

Usually we assume that we act rationally and that others will do the same. Most of the time this is a reasonable assumption (maybe it did not apply when I was an adolescent) but perhaps we don't examine our thinking as carefully as we should.


Here is a professor from Duke University who has studied how we make decisions. His conclusion is that often we are not rational but that our strange irrational behaviour can be predicted. In other words, he believes that humans have an irrational side which can be studied.


This is a good example of the kind of thing I like on YouTube.


- Did I enjoy my YouTube experience?

Yes indeed. In fact I find it difficult to tear myself away. Once I find something of interest, other links dealing with related subjects appear. It is a great way to spend time -- but, depending on what you are watching, may be a better investment of time than some other distractions.


- Why do I think streaming has become so popular?

At one time "broadcasting" was the fad. We watched TV, accepting what others chose to show us. Today "narrowcasting" has become possible through technology. It is possible to pursue very specialized interests by selecting a specific subject. No doubt there is an article somewhere on the web about Latvian music for the kazoo. That interest can only be deepened through links to notable Latvian kazoo artists performing in streaming video.

But the streaming aspect is also important. It is not necessary to download and retain the information on your computer. You can experience it and move on (presumably to kazoo celebrities from the Comoros Islands, for example.)



- Will I continue to use YouTube?

I'm not sure that I'm ready to start posting original videos, but no doubt friends will continue to refer me to strange and amusing items on YouTube.