Satunnaisvirhe

Satunnaisvirhe, also known as a "sabbatical error" or "sabbath error," is a cognitive bias that occurs when individuals make decisions that are contrary to their long-term goals or values due to the influence of the weekend or a period of rest. This phenomenon is named after the Hebrew word "Shabbat," which refers to the Jewish Sabbath, a day of rest.

The concept of satunnaisvirhe was first introduced by the Finnish psychologist and philosopher Ilkka Niiniluoto in his 1999 book "The Logic of Science." Niiniluoto argued that people often make decisions that are rational and beneficial in the short term but detrimental in the long term, especially when they are tired or have taken a break from work.

Satunnaisvirhe can be observed in various contexts, such as financial decision-making, where individuals may make impulsive purchases during the weekend, or in personal relationships, where people might engage in behaviors that are harmful to their long-term goals, such as excessive spending or neglecting responsibilities, during their time off.

Research on satunnaisvirhe has shown that it can be influenced by factors such as fatigue, stress, and the desire for immediate gratification. Understanding this cognitive bias can help individuals make more informed decisions and avoid making choices that may have negative consequences in the long run.