Too Much Information

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When should the government mandate information disclosure? The debate often centers on the "right to know," but Cass Sunstein emphasizes the importance of considering how information affects well-being. This can be complex, as what benefits one person may harm another—like calorie labels on snacks. The book delves into the effects of mandatory labels, an area where Sunstein has extensive research. It questions when information can help individuals make healthier choices, such as quitting smoking, versus when it becomes overwhelming or confusing, as seen with lengthy terms of service. For instance, does a label indicating genetically modified ingredients inform us about health effects? Often, it does not. Sunstein also explores how individuals seek or avoid information based on anticipated feelings. For example, people are more inclined to seek medical results that could save their lives but may avoid knowing about untreatable genetic diseases. He examines social media, noting that while users may feel unhappy on platforms like Facebook, they still value the information they receive, even demanding compensation to stop using it. Additionally, he highlights the staggering paperwork burden on citizens, suggesting that reducing "sludge" could improve outcomes, such as enrolling low-income children in free lunch programs. Ultimately, while information can be a powerful tool that enhances safety and convenience, the challenge lie