Name: The paradox of choice
Uploaded: 2006-09-26T00:11:00Z
Duration: 19 min 23 s
Description: Psychologist Barry Schwartz takes aim at a central tenet of western societies: freedom of choice. In Schwartz's estimation, choice has made us not freer but more paralyzed, not happier but more dissatisfied.

Barry Schwartz: The paradox of choice

The paradox of choice

Psychologist Barry Schwartz takes aim at a central tenet of western societies: freedom of choice. In Schwartz's estimation, choice has made us not freer but more paralyzed, not happier but more dissatisfied.

Growing up in a world with 175 salad dressings and millions of stereo options might seem like progress, but more choice often leads to paralysis and regret. When faced with too many possibilities, people struggle to decide and feel less satisfied with their eventual pick. High expectations rise with every new option, making disappointment more likely, even with objectively better outcomes. As standards soar, so does the tendency to blame oneself, fueling dissatisfaction and even depression.