Elephant and Rider

System I and System II Thinking

Thinking Fast and Slow by Khaneman

Background 

The foundations of dual process theory are ancient. Spinoza who was alive from (1632-1677) distinguished the difference between passions and reason. Then William James who was alive from (1842-1910) believed that there were two different kinds of thinking, which are associative and true reasoning. James theorized that empirical thought was used for things like art and design work. For James, images and thoughts would come to mind of past experiences, providing ideas of comparison or abstractions. He claimed that associative knowledge was only from past experiences describing it as "only reproductive". James believed that true reasoning could enable overcoming “unprecedented situations” just as a map could enable navigating past obstacles. Wikimedia Foundation. 

The Dual-Process Theory is the theory that there are two systems in the brain. These are two cognitive theories that underlie thinking and reasoning. These are said to be developed through evolution. They are often referred to as “implicit” and “explicit.” Or from Keith Stanovich and Richard West they are “System 1” and “System 2.” Wikimedia Foundation. 

Video: https://youtu.be/rGkNbaplkrU?si=wwjHc5vqTkLw7gIa  

System 1: Automatic system 

Our brains’ fast, automatic, unconscious, and emotional response to situations and stimuli. This can be in the form of absentmindedly reading text on a billboard, knowing how to tie your shoelaces without a second thought, or instinctively hopping over a puddle on the sidewalk.

System 2: Rational System 

The slow, effortful, and logical mode in which our brains operate when solving more complicated problems. For example, System 2 thinking is used when looking for a friend in a crowd, parking your vehicle in a tight space, or determining the quality-to-value ratio of your take-out lunch.

Video: https://youtu.be/lBxYh7ijf40?si=bdjClGuhKR8m4v93 

People:

Daniel Kahneman

A renowned psychologist in the field of behavioral economics who was influential in topics such as judgement and decision-making. Kahneman’s 2011 book, Thinking, Fast and Slow, popularized the concepts of System 1 & System 2.

William James

An American psychologist, philosopher, and historian who is credited with laying the initial groundwork for two different types of thinking in the late 19th century. His work would go on to influence formal literature on the dual process model in the late 20th century. At Harvard University, James was one of the very first educators to offer a psychology course in the United States.7

Michael Posner

An American psychologist who, along with Charles Snyder, was one of the first to formally introduce the dual process model. Posner and Snyder’s book, Attention and Cognitive Control, described the two forms of thinking as automatic and controlled, respectively.

The Rider and the Elephant Video: https://youtu.be/X9KP8uiGZTs?si=Wk31Vd8JBaddVXT_ 

System 1 and System 2 thinking serve different purposes and are advantageous in different situations-

System 1 Thinking:

Quick Decision-Making: In situations where a rapid response is required, such as reacting to a sudden threat or danger, System 1 thinking can be advantageous. For example, quickly swerving to avoid an oncoming car while driving.

Everyday Tasks: System 1 thinking is well-suited for routine, everyday tasks that don't require deep analysis or conscious deliberation, such as tying shoelaces or recognizing familiar faces.

Automatic Skills: When performing highly practiced skills, such as playing a musical instrument or typing on a keyboard, System 1 thinking allows for fluent, effortless execution without the need for conscious monitoring.

Survival Instincts: System 1 thinking is adaptive in situations where immediate action is needed for survival, such as fleeing from a predator or reacting to a fire alarm. Chatgpt.

System 2 Thinking:

Complex Problem-Solving: System 2 thinking is advantageous in situations that require careful analysis, planning, and problem-solving, especially when faced with complex or novel problems. For example, solving a difficult math problem or developing a long-term strategic plan.

Critical Thinking: System 2 thinking enables individuals to critically evaluate information, weigh evidence, and make reasoned judgments. This is important in academic pursuits, professional decision-making, and evaluating the validity of arguments.

Decision-Making Under Uncertainty: When faced with ambiguous or uncertain situations, System 2 thinking allows individuals to consider multiple possibilities, anticipate potential consequences, and make informed decisions based on reasoned deliberation.

Self-Control: System 2 thinking is essential for exercising self-control and overcoming impulses or temptations. It enables individuals to resist immediate gratification in favor of long-term goals, such as saving money or maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

In summary, System 1 thinking is advantageous in situations that require speed, efficiency, and automatic processing, while System 2 thinking is better suited for situations that demand careful analysis, critical thinking, and conscious deliberation. Both modes of thinking complement each other and are essential for adaptive functioning in different contexts. Chatgpt

Critical thinking questions:

How can educators use both System 1 and System 2 thinking to enhance student engagement and understanding?

How might awareness of dual process theory help individuals improve their decision-making and critical thinking skills?

In what situations might System 1 thinking be more adaptive or advantageous than System 2 thinking, and vice versa?

References

Chatgpt. (n.d.-a). https://chat.openai.com/ 

Frontiers. (n.d.). https://www.frontiersin.org/subjects/the-dual-process-theory 

McDermott, M. U. (2018, August 12). Dual processing theory: The fast and slow Thinking@MikeGisondi#MedutopiaPuraVida pic.twitter.com/70age5fqpt. Twitter. https://twitter.com/umanamd/status/1028689690109648896 

System 1 and System 2 thinking. The Decision Lab. (n.d.). https://thedecisionlab.com/reference-guide/philosophy/system-1-and-system-2-thinking 

The Elephant, the rider and the path - A tale of behavior change. YouTube. (2015, April 2). https://youtu.be/X9KP8uiGZTs?si=Wk31Vd8JBaddVXT_ 

Wikimedia Foundation. (2024, March 19). Dual process theory. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dual_process_theory 

YouTube. (2019, March 15). Dual Processing explained. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBxYh7ijf40