How can groups make good decisions? - Mariano Sigman and Dan Ariely
Let’s Begin…
We all know that when we make decisions in groups, they don't always go right. How can groups make good decisions? Dan Ariely and neuroscientist Mariano Sigman have been inquiring into how we interact to reach decisions by performing experiments with live crowds around the world. In this fun, fact-filled explainer, they share some intriguing results.
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Large groups of people are smarter than an elite few, argues James Surowiecki in his book “The Wisdom of Crowds." Similarly, in the article "How Diversity Makes Us Smarter,” Katherine W. Phillips offers insightful perspectives drawing from decades of research from organizational scientists, psychologists, sociologists, economists and demographers.
Howard Rheingold’s TED Talk "The Power of Collaboration" speaks of our natural human instinct to work as a group and discusses the coming world of collaboration, participatory media and collective action. Finally, Harvard Business Review offers 7 strategies for better group decision making in this article.
Watch the video and finish the Think section to complete the lesson.
About Democracy Lab
As democracies worldwide face mounting challenges, communities across the globe are mobilizing to reform systems and reignite civic culture. A key component of any healthy democratic society is quality civics education. Through content and supporting lesson materials curated and designed by experts in the field, Democracy Lab is designed to give users a strong understanding of what democracy is, but also the role that engaged participation plays in helping it thrive.
Meet The Creators
- Video created by TED
- Lesson Plan created by Lauren McAlpine
