The opportunity cost model: automaticity, individual differences, and self-control resources

Behav Brain Sci. 2013 Dec;36(6):687-8; discussion 707-26. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X1300099X.

Abstract

I contend that Kurzban et al.'s model is silent on three issues. First, the extent to which opportunity-cost computations are automatic or deliberative is unclear. Second, the role of individual differences in biasing opportunity-cost computations needs elucidating. Third, in the absence of "next-best" tasks, task persistence will be indefinite, which seems unfeasible, so perhaps integration with a limited-resource account is necessary.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Mental Fatigue / psychology*
  • Models, Psychological*