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News Tip: Why John Edwards and Other Powerful Figures Make Bad Decisions

Scott Huettel, associate professor in Psychology and Neuroscience, says "what's important for them is the act of attaining a little bit more."

Former U.S. Senator and Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards was indicted Friday on charges of conspiracy and false statements. He is the third major political figure to become embroiled in scandal in recent weeks, along with former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and New York Rep. Anthony Weiner.Scott Huettel, Associate Professor, Duke University Department of Psychology and Neuroscience919) 668-5286 scott.huettel@duke.eduhttp://psychandneuro.duke.edu/people?Gurl=%2Faas%2Fpn&Uil=scott.huettel&subpage=profileHuettel's research focuses on understanding the brain mechanisms underlying economic and social decision-making. Quote:"It doesn't matter how much money you have, we treat gain as good and loss as bad. Even when you have a lot of money your exhibited loss aversion doesn't seem to change. "Effectively, people tend to not integrate what they have so much when making decisions. So instead of perhaps being more conservative and thinking about what this could cost them, they are still tempted by the possible positive outcomes."You can always push for a little bit more. So what's important for them is the act of attaining a little bit more. It's not about attaining a good life."