Arithmetical Estimation “Ad Absurdum”

Abstract

An “absurd” arithmetical estimation task, which totally eliminated any skill facet, was used in an experiment designed to test the hypothesis that only when any application of known algorithms is clearly impossible, do Ss take into account shifts in payoff matrices in their decision processes. Ss' behavior in this absurd task was compared with that of Ss in a previously described arithmetical estimation task under severe time restrictions. Ten Ss comprised the experimental group while 6 Ss served as controls, each S performing 150 decisions. It was found that 50% of the Ss in the experimental group showed the expected rational shift in their behavior; there were no shifts by controls. Ritualistic skill-based strategy under adverse environmental conditions is discussed.

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