Social Hallucinations

Models are Problematic

Image by ~jjjohn~ via FlickrPeople love models, especially when they’re big, complex and quantitative. Models make us feel safe. They take the uncertainty of the future and break it down into neat, bite-sized equations. But here’s the problem with models, which is really a problem with the human mind. We become so focused on the predictions of the model - be it the cod population, or the risk of mortgage derivatives - that we stop questioning the basic assumptions of the model. (Instead, the confirmation bias seeps in and we devote way too much mental energy to proving the model true.) It’s not just about black swans or random outliers. After all, there was no black swan event that triggered this most recent financial mess. There was simply an exquisite model, churning out extremely profitable predictions, that happened to be based on a false premise.
- Jonah Lehrer in Dangerous Models

Know the Signs

The latest project from Heineken - Know the Signs. We all know people who not only get drunk and funny but some who lose control. There are 5 types of drinkers and Heineken gives you a guide how to spot them, then you get the chance to see them in action and embarrass them by sending videos, widgets and letting them know: Dude you are far out! Entertaining. I like the fact that site has so many ways of getting engaged and takes a good angle on the problems of excessive drinking and involves social mechanics - embarrass your friend. Well done!

Different Tea Bags

Brilliant idea! Tea bags don't need to be boring.

via TheDieline

Meet Whopper Virgins

This is a fantastic idea from Big Mac - Whopper Virgins. The Power of idea!

Life is too short...

Image by Midnight-digital via Flickr

“ Life’s too short to hate what you do all day.
Life’s way to short to make mediocre stuff.”
- Seth Godin, Tribes