Spending & BudgetingWanting

The Diderot Effect

A philosopher's beautiful new robe made everything he owned look shabby, and the upgrades never stopped

One beautiful gift made everything a famous philosopher owned look shabby. Could one new thing do that to you?

You'll find out

  • How one robe emptied a whole study
  • The empress who paid his salary
  • The name researchers gave it

Why it matters

Upgrades rarely come alone. Seeing the chain coming is how you get to decide where it stops.

About 4 min7 interactive slides · 5 questionsLesson 178 · Zone 20

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  2. 173PricingThe Decoy PriceA useless option can make another look like a deal
  3. 174SpendingLifestyle CreepWhen spending rises to meet every raise
  4. 175BudgetingSinking FundsSaving a little each month for bills you know are coming
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  7. 179Behavioral EconomicsThe IKEA EffectWe love what we build ourselves
  8. 180Spending HabitsThe 30-Day PauseWaiting before a want shows if you still want it