Bringing to life scientific research in psychology cognitive neuroscience philosophy and
behavioral economics this bestselling book reveals what scientists have discovered about the
uniquely human ability to imagine the future and about our capacity to predict how much we
will like it when we get there. • Why are lovers quicker to forgive their partners for
infidelity than for leaving dirty dishes in the sink? • Why will sighted people pay more to
avoid going blind than blind people will pay to regain their sight? • Why do dining
companions insist on ordering different meals instead of getting what they really want? •
Why do pigeons seem to have such excellent aim why can't we remember one song while listening
to another and why does the line at the grocery store always slow down the moment we join it?
In this brilliant witty and accessible book renowned Harvard psychologist Daniel Gilbert
describes the foibles of imagination and illusions of foresight that cause each of us to
misconceive our tomorrows and misestimate our satisfactions. With penetrating insight and
sparkling prose Gilbert explains why we seem to know so little about the hearts and minds of
the people we are about to become.
