Behavioural Science is one of the upcoming fields and most people get confused about where to begin their Behavioural Science journey. There have been over 200 public entities created that specifically look at problems through a behavioural science lens [1]. With increasing interest there have been a great number of books published in this space. Here is a list of a few recommended books and some courses to start your behavioural science journey.
- Inside the Nudge Unit – David Halpern
This interesting read focuses on giving readers a brief history of behavioural science and how can this field be adapted in the public policy space. Halpern talks about how the Behavioural Insights Team, UK was incorporated. He also introduces readers to the concept of the EAST framework and discusses the importance of the “Test, Learn, Adapt” approach thus focusing on conducting randomised control trials (RCT) to test the effectiveness of behavioural interventions.
- The Power of Experiments: Decision–making in a data-driven world – Michael Luca & Max H. Bazerman
This great book shows readers the power of experiments otherwise known as RCT’s. It focuses on how tech companies such as Google, Facebook, StubHub, etc. make data-based decisions based on several natural experiments that they conduct. Unknowingly we are all part of some RCT on a day-to-day basis. Highly interesting read and helps readers to understand how to make data-based decisions using experiments.
If your learning style is not reading, Dilip Soman has a great free short course for beginners to this space known as “Behavioural Economics in Action” on edX.
Wherever you are in your behavioural science journey there are several sources to gain knowledge through books or courses. Either a beginner or a person with developed knowledge, the University of Stirling offers its Msc Behavioural Science course where learners at all stages have something to gain from.
And, of course
- Nudge – Richard H. Thaler & Cass R. Sunstein
This book gives a great introduction to the field of behavioural science and introduces readers to various cognitive biases. It was also through the concept of “Nudge” that the behavioural science space gained more popularity.
And if you want to get your head into some seminal articles, here are some we think are a good starting point: