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Learnings Mental Models

Goodhart’s Law: When Measurement Becomes the Target

Introduction Goodhart’s Law, a concept coined by economist Charles Goodhart, highlights the pitfalls of using quantitative metrics as proxies for complex systems. This mental model suggests that once a measure becomes a target, it loses its effectiveness, leading to distorted decision-making outcomes. Understanding Goodhart’s Law is crucial for navigating decision-making processes, as it sheds light […]

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Learnings Mental Models

Campbell’s Law: The Perils of Misaligned Incentives in Decision-Making

Introduction In the realm of decision-making, cognitive biases often cloud our judgment and lead us astray. One such cognitive trap is Campbell’s Law, a mental model that highlights how the pursuit of quantifiable metrics can distort decision-making processes. Coined by social psychologist Donald T. Campbell, this law suggests that when a measure becomes a target, […]