Heuristics and Stereotypical Action

Abstract

Some of the developments of “cognitive science” over that past few decades have shed light on the flaws of long-unscathed assumptions in sociological action theories—theories which have endowed the purposive-rational action with exorbitant significance. On the one hand, experimental evidences on heuristics indicate that human capacity for algorithmic thinking is limited. On the other hand, observations on the unexpected prevalence of routinized, stereotyped behaviors in the social realm elucidate the wax and wane of purposive-consciousness in a succession of actions. By using heuristics and engaging in stereotypical action, people ‘get along’ in their uncertain and complex world.