​The Berlin Circle: Rational vs. Irrational Thinking — How We Make Decisions

​Berlin Circle is a reading and discussion seminar group that explores ideas through popular science books, research articles, and shared conversation. Each meeting focuses on one topic and invites participants to approach it from different perspectives.

​This event is the first meeting of the Berlin Circle hosted at the library. It opens a series of monthly discussions dedicated to science-based topics and collective learning.

​At this meeting, we will explore the boundary between rational and irrational thinking and how both shape the decisions we make. We will discuss when rational analysis helps us act wisely, and when intuitive or seemingly “irrational” responses play an important role. Drawing on psychology, behavioral science, and cognitive research, we will examine how fast, intuitive judgments interact with slower, more deliberate reasoning — and why even well-informed people make predictable mistakes.

​Participants are invited to prepare in advance and actively take part in the discussion. Each participant will have about 5 minutes to briefly share:

• ​what they chose to read or watch,

• ​which ideas they found important, surprising, or controversial,

• ​and what questions or topics they would like to explore further during the discussion.

​Preparation & Suggested Materials

​To help you prepare for the discussion, we’ve curated a selection of materials that approach the topic from different perspectives and levels of depth. This allows you to engage with the theme in a way that best fits your interests and available time.

​The reading list includes:

• ​Cognitive and behavioral science — books and articles on rationality, intuition, heuristics, and biases in decision-making.

• ​Popular science literature — accessible texts that explain complex ideas through real-life examples and research.

• ​Academic research papers — for those interested in a deeper, more scientific perspective.

• ​Popular articles and essays — shorter formats for a compact introduction to the topic.

​You don’t need to read everything. Choosing one book, article, or essay is enough to take part in the discussion. You’re also welcome to bring your own material, as long as it relates to the theme of rational and irrational thinking.

​All suggested readings and links are collected in a shared document, which you can access via the link:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sH_rFdsVSMsgIO92XdSqnRJQVVhwyFHPJnBKTJ0BSjw/edit?usp=sharing

​Important Information

• ​Age 16+

• ​The discussion will be held in English.

• ​Registration is required to attend the event.

• ​Participation is free. Donations are optional and help support our meetings.

• ​We aim to create a safe, inclusive space for sharing ideas and learning from different perspectives. Respectful dialogue is encouraged, and participants are asked to follow our Code of Conduct.