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Book Review: Human—Computer Interaction: Psychonomic Aspects

utilitarianism itself can be useful. It can be deployed to analyse moral issues in terms of the consequences of decisions. Baron has a proposal, weighted utilitarianism, for a normative theory that can handle decisions about social dilemmas. Our own interest is weighted more heavily than the interests of others. We aim to give the greatest benefit to others at least cost to ourselves. Finally, Baron deals in Part IV with teaching people to overcome bias. Throughout his book, Baron answers his prescriptive question (how can thinking be improved?) by recommending his model of active openmindedness. A good thinker should be open to new possibilities, new goals and contrary evidence. Also, a good thinker should search actively for these elements, instead of just passively waiting for them. Good thinking can be taught. For example, Baron and a colleague have developed a lesson, for schoolchildren, in which the point is emphasized that important decisions need openmindedness. Jonathan Baron, who is professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, has published a number of studies in the areas of thinking, decision and belief. A previous book by him, Rationality and intelligence, is the basis for much of the individualistic material in the earlier part of his present book. In particular, his earlier book is the source for the distinction he draws between descriptive, normative and prescriptive; for his searchinference framework; and for his model of rational thinking. His present book is intended as a text for undergraduates and beginning graduate students. In our local context, the book would suit final-year undergraduate and Honours students. Indeed, it will be appearing this year on the reading list for third-year psychology students in at least one of our universities. It is a very good text and far from a routine plodding through standard topics. In thinking, a lot of topics are complex and demanding. Not only does Baron have a mastery of clear and considerate exposition but he also has the skill of singling out central themes so economically that none of them are in great danger of being lost. Even psychologists who do not rely on the text for teaching can use it gainfully and without great strain to improve their own understanding and thinking.