This is a Lexicon entry: the mechanism, when it shows up, and the countermeasure. The full correction, with real-world cases and the audit prompt, hasn't been written yet.
Definition
The observation that the more similar two choices are, the harder it is to choose between them, even though the choice matters less - since the outcomes are nearly identical either way.
When it shows up
Agonizing over choices between nearly identical options: two similar jobs, two similar houses, two similar products. Decision paralysis at the point of smallest practical difference.
Failure mode
The more similar two choices are, the longer you deliberate, even though the smaller the difference the less the deliberation matters. Time spent deciding between near-equivalents has near-zero payoff.
Countermeasure
When options are close, flip a coin or set a deadline. The cost of either choice is small; the cost of continued deliberation is large. Distinguish decisions that warrant analysis from ones that warrant closure.
Related traps
Also connected in the map2 more, locked
Credit & first seen
DiscoveredFredkin, E. (cited). See: Bhogal, G.Gurwinder's Third Paradox.The Prism. gurwinder.blog source ↗
Also revealed
Entry #65 of 631 in The Lexicon · see the full Lexicon