Heuristics
Heuristics can be described as the brain process that takes place to
gain knowledge or an understanding or some other desired result, which then
leads to a decision. This process involves intelligent reasoning rather than following
a prearranged method; it is a quick and precise way to get from point a to
point b.
An example of a specific heuristic is the common sense heuristic, which is applied
to a problem based on an individual's observation of a situation. In most cases
the difference between wrong and right seems to be clear and leads one to the
most feasible answer. An example of this would be deciding whether or
not to walk home at night alone or with a friend in a bad part of town. The
obvious common sense heuristic would be to walk with a friend.
Another heuristic is that of the familiarity heuristic, which allows
someone to approach an issue or problem based on the fact that the situation is
one with which the individual is familiar, and so one should act the same way
they acted in the same situation before. An example of this could be who
decides to step up and help someone who is fallen ill. Someone who has had a
background in the medical field is probably more likely and more knowledge to be capable of helping effectively.
Heuristics can be accumulated from numerous life occurrences
and upbringings, which then affect one’s everyday decision-making process. Humans
often revert to this sort of mental shortcut without even realizing they are
doing it. Because of this, humans are able to make decision extremely quickly
instead of spending a lot of time on something that does not necessarily need a
lot of thought. Heuristics is something that is apart of human nature and
varies from person to person based on personal experience.
