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Mapping the Ecology of Risk: 100 Risky Choices of Modern Life
1Department of Psychology, University of Zurich.
Psychological Science
|November 6, 2025
Summary
This study identifies 100 real-life risky choices people face today. Findings offer insights into risk preference and decision-making in a rapidly evolving world.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Decision Science
- Sociology
Background:
- Modern life presents complex and evolving risks.
- Understanding individual choices in the face of risk is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and categorize real-life risky choices.
- To develop a measurement instrument for risk preference.
- To explore the structure and stability of risk ecology.
Main Methods:
- Conducted population surveys in Switzerland (N=4,380).
- Developed an inventory of 100 unique real-life choices.
- Performed a follow-up study (N=933) to assess generalizability.
Main Results:
- Identified 100 distinct risky choices across various life domains.
- Established the structure and stability of the current risk ecology.
- Demonstrated generalizability of risk preference to these real-life choices.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a novel inventory of real-life risks.
- Findings inform the development of risk measurement tools.
- Insights aid in understanding and addressing contemporary risks in policymaking.
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