Chapter 8

Representations one of the general kinds is analogical representations. This is a mental representation with characteristics of an object. There is also symbiotic where it does not have physical characteristics. There is evidence with this in how analogical corresponds with geographical maps and symbiotic with how it is abstract. Expected utility is the ideal way for humans to make decisions by examining every option and possible outcome. The limitations to this would be its incredibly time consuming so humans have created shortcuts, known as heuristics, to help with decision making. Framing also contributes to decisions since it is how information is perceived. Goals are often associated with decision making. You could use sub goals to accomplish this. For example if you want to win a state championship you first have to have win your district first. Another is a sudden insight. This would be when the solution just comes to you immediately. There are several different types of intelligence that people have. The first would be general intelligence, the idea that one general factor underlies all mental abilities. One major finding is the fact we can find the general intelligence based on IQ tests. Fluid intelligence involves information processing in complex situation. An example would be reasoning or making analogies. Another is crystallized intelligence, which is the kind we gain from experience.  Prototype is based on categorization and how within categories some things are more representative than others. The good thing about this is it allows us to be flexible. People tend to follow scripts in certain situations. This is based on their expectations either from what they were told or what they experienced. There is a difference in problem solving and decision making. With decisions your trying to chose the best option. In problem solving your overcoming an obstacle. We tend to forecast how we will feel after events. If we think we will be sad we tend to do things to cheer ourselves up. Reliability would be how consistent something is. This differs from Validity which would be how relevant something is.