J3: Cognitive Symmetry

A useful application of symmetry can also be found in a lot of things relating to group theory.

One of these things is the status quo bias. It is the tendency of an individual especially when in a group, to like things to stay relatively the same so as to avoid conflict to arise. [1]

In this certain case, symmetry can be a good or a bad thing. The status quo bias is good to the extent that it helps avoid conflicts to arise, but at the same time, it may hinder innovation.

References:
Kahneman, D.; Knetsch, J. L.; Thaler, R. H. (1991). “Anomalies: The Endowment Effect, Loss Aversion, and Status Quo Bias”. Journal of Economic Perspectives. 5 (1): 193–206. doi:10.1257/jep.5.1.193.

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