Bence Nanay: The "End of History" Illusion

The "End of History" Illusion

Time and time again, we've failed to predict that the technologies of the present will change the future. Recently, a similar pattern was discovered in our individual lives: we're unable to predict change in ourselves. But is there anything wrong with assuming that who we are now is who we will continue to be? Bence Nanay details the consequences of seeing ourselves as finished products. [TED-Ed Animation by Stretch Films Inc]. 

People tend to believe their current personalities, values, and preferences will remain stable, despite strong evidence to the contrary. In a study of over 7,000 people ages 18 to 68, every age group underestimated how much they would change in the coming decade. For example, 30-year-olds thought they'd keep the same tastes and friendships into their forties, but those in their forties reported otherwise. This tendency to see ourselves as finished products shapes major life decisions and can lead to overcommitment based on present desires.