Less is more: Too may choices are not necessarily the best thing | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

Behavioral scientists say the flood of options in everyday life—from shopping and social plans to Medicare and retirement decisions—can make people more anxious, indecisive, and less satisfied with what they choose. Barry Schwartz, an emeritus psychology professor at Swarthmore University and author of The Paradox of Choice, points to research showing “too much of a good thing.” He cites Medicare Part D: in states with more plan choices, people were less likely to select any plan. A similar pattern appeared with 401(k) offerings, where more options reduced employee sign-ups even when employers offered matching money. Schwartz also discusses studies on jam flavors and student topics, where fewer choices improved completion.