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Extension Neglect


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Extension Neglect

Extension Neglect is a cognitive bias that is characterized by the tendency of individuals to focus on the immediate future and overlook the potential consequences of their decisions in the long term. This phenomenon can be seen in a variety of contexts, including finance, politics, and healthcare. It is a form of myopia that can lead to suboptimal decision-making and undesirable outcomes. One of the key factors that contribute to Extension Neglect is the human tendency to discount the value of future outcomes. People tend to place greater importance on immediate rewards and tend to undervalue future benefits or costs. This can lead to a failure to consider the long-term implications of their decisions. Another factor that contributes to Extension Neglect is the complexity of decision-making. People often have limited cognitive resources and may not have the time or ability to consider all of the potential outcomes of their decisions. This can lead to a focus on the most salient aspects of a decision, while neglecting other important factors. Extension Neglect can have significant consequences in a variety of domains. In finance, it can lead to poor investment decisions that prioritize short-term gains over long-term growth. In politics, it can lead to policies that prioritize immediate benefits over long-term sustainability. In healthcare, it can lead to decisions that prioritize symptom relief over long-term health outcomes. To overcome Extension Neglect, individuals can take steps to increase their awareness of the potential long-term consequences of their decisions. This may involve seeking out expert advice, conducting research, and considering the potential outcomes of their decisions over a longer time horizon.

cognitive bias, decision-making, myopia, long-term consequences, immediate rewards

— Anthony Smith

CITATION : "Anthony Smith. 'Extension Neglect.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/extension-neglect?E=353846 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"

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Extension Neglect

Extension Neglect is a cognitive bias which leads people to overlook possible outcomes that are more distant in the future. It is simply a tendency to focus on the immediate future and ignore what might happen further down the line. For example, if a child was offered a sweet treat right away, they might not think about the fact that eating too much sugar could have a negative effect on their health in the long run.

Extension Neglect, Future Thinking, Forecasting, Long-term Consequences.

— Thomas Lee

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Extension Neglect

Extension Neglect is a form of cognitive bias that refers to the tendency of individuals to focus on the properties of an existing situation while ignoring the potential consequences of their decisions. This bias is particularly problematic when it leads to a decision that is not based on an accurate assessment of the facts, but instead on a distorted one. For example, an individual might think that a particular action will lead to a desirable outcome without considering the potential negative implications of the same action. This phenomenon can be seen in decisions across various areas, such as finance, politics, and healthcare.

Extrapolation, Overconfidence, Misunderstanding, Risk-taking.

— Jessica Adams


Extension Neglect Definition

Extension Neglect on Design+Encyclopedia

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