The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less

Schwartz acknowledges that having choices is fundamental to human freedom and autonomy. Making choices satisfies the pragmatic function of fulfilling basic human needs, while also having an expressive value—we tell the world who we are through the choices we make. In modern western society, people can choose their own goods as well as their own experiences.

Feeling in control of one’s own choices and life is strongly associated with happiness. However, as Americans’ options have increased over the last decades, their average life satisfaction and happiness has decreased. Schwartz considers this contradiction and offers two possible explanations: People’s expectations about their options have increased; or their options have caused them to feel overwhelmed, rather than in control.

Schwartz explains that maintaining strong social relationships is a key predictor of life satisfaction, yet relationships are inherently constraining. For instance, being married means limiting oneself to one partner, or joining a religious community requires abiding by certain rules. Nevertheless, these constraints seem to bolster, rather than diminish, people’s happiness.

The author considers how people could harness the benefits of constraints in their favor. For instance, people can impose appropriate restraints on their own decision-making to save time and stress. Philosopher