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Cognitive Biases and Their Impact - 27 (Zero-Risk Bias)

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Zero-Risk Bias Definition Zero-risk bias is a cognitive tendency where individuals prefer options that eliminate risk entirely, even when these options may lead to less favourable outcomes. This bias leads to a preference for certainty and the avoidance of potential risks, even if taking a calculated risk could yield better results. This inclination towards the known and secure can prevent individuals and organisations from making decisions that could lead to significant advancements and improvements. Discovery and Origins Zero-risk bias was first formally recognised and studied by psychologists in the context of risk assessment and decision-making. The concept was prominently discussed in a 1980 paper by Howard Kunreuther, Robert Meyer, and their colleagues, who examined the ways people manage risks. They found that individuals often make decisions that eliminate small risks completely rather than make choices that would reduce overall risk more effectively. This tendency was noted in...

Boarding School Teachers: Masters of the Multitasking Circus

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Having spent 35 years in the world of boarding schools—as a teacher, housemaster, and principal—I can confidently say that being a boarding school teacher is not just a job, it’s an adventure, a performance, and sometimes even a survival challenge! Being a boarding school teacher is like joining a never-ending reality show, where you are not just a teacher but also a counsellor, event manager, transport officer, security guard, detective, nurse, politician, beggar (pleading for homework submissions), chef, spiritual guide, police officer, magician, actor, sports mentor, love guru and psychologist – all before breakfast!  You see yourself as the hero of the story, but occasionally the plot twist turns you into the villain—purely by accident, of course!  Every day is a new adventure, and every student is a fresh challenge waiting to unfold. Administrative Skills: The Ultimate Juggler From waking up half-asleep children at 6 a.m. (a task tougher than waking the dead) to ensuring ...