Wiser: Getting Beyond Groupthink to Make Groups Smarter by Cass R. Sunstein and Reid Hastie is a powerful examination of group decision-making and why collective choices so often go awry. Drawing from behavioral science, the authors break down the hidden flaws that emerge when teams and committees strive for consensus but instead reinforce errors, suppress dissent, and fall victim to social pressure.
The book begins by analyzing common patterns that hinder sound judgment in groups, phenomena such as group polarization, informational cascades, and the tendency to favor shared over unique knowledge.
Through accessible explanations and real-world examples, Sunstein and Hastie illustrate how even highly intelligent groups can make systematically poor decisions when structure and incentives are misaligned.
In response, the authors offer practical strategies for making groups not only more inclusive but also more effective. Techniques such as minimizing the influence of dominant voices, redesigning reward systems, and assigning roles based on individual strengths provide a roadmap for improving outcomes in any organizational setting.
Their insights are especially valuable for leaders aiming to harness the full potential of diverse teams.
Wiser challenges long-held assumptions about teamwork and provides a research-backed framework for enhancing collective intelligence, making it a timely and insightful guide for navigating decision-making in business and beyond.
