A Few Principles for Thinking Clearly

The basic idea is that when you reward people for a particular measure — clicks, dollars, likes, etc. — people will find a way to “game” the system.

For example: If journalism is fueled by clicks, journalists are going to write sensationalist clickbait.

It’s easy to sell out or self-censor because you’re afraid of (a) financial or (b) status pushback.

The cure might be to hold fame and financial success in low regard.

The more a particular issue is wrapped up in your identity, the harder it is for you to think clearly about it.

Also, when people are exposed to evidence that contradicts their identities or tribal affiliations, they’ll actually double down and become more confident in whatever they believed. This is why it’s important when trying to think clearly, to avoid identifying with any particular tribe.