Thinking, Feeling & Actions
Part 4 - Systems 1 and 2

In his book Thinking Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman looks at ways in which we process information. He created a way of clarifying the work of our mind by splitting it into two systems:

System 1

System 1 does the easy, fast, (lazy) thinking. It’s instinctive, emotional and strewn with mistakes. It engages for tasks you can do with your eyes closed – things you do automatically or subconsciously. For example, a basic maths sum: 9-2.

System 1 is likely to deal with things that are known to us, turning difficult questions into easier questions that are then easier to answer.
System 1 processing can make you jump to hasty conclusions and be quick to form judgements and opinions.

System 2

System 2 requires more focus, concentration and calculation. It’s deliberate, methodical and logical. This thinking operates on a more conscious level. Its processing takes longer, as it works with unknown entities, new ideas and new ways of being, as well as bigger qualities and quantities of information. For example: 22x17.

You’re likely to get different results according to which system you use and come to different conclusions.

My system 1 and system 2

Using Kahneman’s model of system 1 and 2, can you work out which types of thinking you use for which situations? Below are some examples, but it may be more useful to you to create your own personal situations and work out what’s what.

Situation	S1	S2
Morning routine
Preparing a meal
Getting ready to sleep
Doing something to avoid boredom
Taking a regular journey
Using your phone
Meeting your friends
Meeting new people for the first time

Q: Can you pick out certain situations when it would be better to switch system? If so, can you name and describe them?

Systems 1 and 2

Thinking, Feeling & ActionsPart 4 - Systems 1 and 2

System 1

System 2

My system 1 and system 2

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Thinking, Feeling & Actions
Part 4 - Systems 1 and 2