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Overrated intuition and underappreciated deliberation: Reevaluating the Smart System-1 account of reasoning
Atakan Atamer1, Andras Molnar1, Priti Shah1
1University of Michigan, Department of Psychology, 530 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1043, United States of America.
Cognition
|July 9, 2026
Summary
Accurate reasoning often requires overriding initial intuitions through deliberation, challenging the Smart System-1 account. This study found that deliberate thought, not intuition, is key to solving complex problems.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Decision Making
- Human Reasoning
Background:
- Classic dual process theory posits reasoning involves intuition and deliberation.
- The Smart System-1 account suggests accurate responses stem from "logical intuitions."
- Previous studies supported the Smart System-1 account using a two-response paradigm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To rigorously test the Smart System-1 account with improved methodology.
- To re-evaluate the role of intuition versus deliberation in problem-solving.
- To investigate cognitive load and incentives on reasoning accuracy.
Main Methods:
- Four experiments employed a two-response paradigm with cognitive load (verbal working-memory task).
- Methodological improvements included blocked designs, incentives, and open-ended formats.
- Reading speed was controlled in Experiment 2.
Main Results:
- Contrary to the Smart System-1 account, most correct answers were given in the deliberate phase.
- Participants frequently overrode incorrect intuitions through deliberation.
- Previous findings on the prevalence of correct intuitions were likely overestimated.
Conclusions:
- Deliberation plays a more significant corrective role in reasoning than previously suggested.
- The Smart System-1 account's emphasis on "logical intuitions" is not supported by these findings.
- Accurate problem-solving predominantly relies on overriding initial, often incorrect, intuitive responses.
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