Title: The Architecture of Self-Deceit
Subtitle: Exploring the Traps of Decision in Society, Government, and Organizations
Subject Classification:  Decision Making, Psychology, Built Environment  
BIC Classification: GPQ, JH, JM
BISAC Classification: PSY008000, BUS019000, SOC026000
Binding: Hardback, eBook
Planned publication date: Jul 2026
ISBN (Hardback): 978-1-83711-217-3
ISBN (eBook): 978-1-83711-218-0

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Description

Human beings, groups, and organizations are capable of effective decision-making under optimal conditions. Yet, the process is complex, shaped by multifaceted social and political dynamics that surpass mere rationality. Decisions are rarely isolated acts of logic but are influenced by group dynamics, cognitive biases, and organizational culture. While learning from mistakes—inevitable and natural errors termed "Errors of Class 1"—provides opportunities for reflection and adaptation, not all learning is universal.

The book explores a more disturbing phenomenon: "Errors of Class 2" or "The Traps of Decision." These occur when persons, groups, and organizations deliberately refuse to acknowledge mistakes despite clear evidence of flawed decisions or harmful outcomes. Class 2 errors involve justifying, perpetuating, and intensifying failing actions, increasing the risk of severe consequences. The book delves into several case studies to explore how these decision-making traps operate. It questions whether there are antidotes or methods to circumvent these pitfalls. Whether discussing governments or corporations, elements such as voluntarism, power concentration, the suppression of diverse voices, ideological stubbornness, and the illusion of infallibility, are all elements that feed into the traps of decision-making.

Biography

Author(s):  David Arellano-Gault is a professor at CIDE in Mexico.

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