How 'optimism bias' shapes our decisions and futures
This is a list of key vocabulary and expressions from the article in order of how useful they are. The student must choose 6 items from the list to study in the lesson.
To put (something/ someone) at risk
To overestimate/ underestimate
15 conversation-provoking questions related to the article.
What do you know about Gina Vangeli?
What is optimism bias?
How do geography and age affect levels of optimism bias?
According to the article, what are the potential advantages of optimism bias?
According to the article, what are the potential disadvantages of optimism bias?
‘I believe that in 5 years’ time, my work situation will be better than it is now.’ Is this true for you?
‘I believe that in 5 years’ time, my home will be nicer than it is now.’ Is this true for you?
‘I believe that in 5 years’ time, I will be a more skilled person than I am now.’ Is this true for you?
‘I believe that in 5 years’ time, most people in my country will have better jobs, nicer homes and more skills than they do now.’ Is this true for you?
‘I think it is optimism that causes success rather than success generating optimism, although I'm sure it's a bit in both directions’. Do you agree with Sharot?
‘I have one friend who is incredibly pessimistic.’ Is this true for you?
‘I always overestimate how good my holidays will be.’ Is this true for you?
‘I don’t watch the news anymore because it’s too negative.’ Is this true for you?
‘At the root of optimism bias are two assumptions: first, that we possess more positive traits than the average person; second, that we have some kind of control over the world around us.’ Do you make both of these assumptions?
‘Without [optimism bias], the human species would not have progressed.’ Do you agree with Shelley Laslett?