Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 25, 2025

New Variations for Strategy Set-shifting in the Rat
Published on: January 23, 2017
Shove and Nudge: A Commentary on Iserson
1Associate Professor, Department of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden. kalle.grill@umu.se.
Abstract:
In this comment on Kenneth Iserson's article, "Do You Believe in Magic? Shove, Don't Nudge: Advising Patients at the Bedside," I discuss the definition of and the moral evaluation of nudging. I propose that using persuasive descriptions and intentionally building trust in patients by one's demeanor is a form of nudging. I argue that nudging is not necessarily morally problematic, but that it can be controlling and can limit liberty, despite proponents' claims to the contrary. I agree with Iserson that clinicians should give their patients explicit advice, but add that they should ideally also be aware of the more subtle psychological effects of advice giving.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Drive-Reduction Theory: Push Theory of Motivation
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Persuasion Strategies
Incentive Theory: Pull Theory of Motivation
The theory differentiates between...
Conformity

