Mindmasters: The Data-Driven Science of Predicting and Changing Human Behavior

Every day, we make approximately 35,000 decisions, from the trivial to the transformative. But how many of these choices are actually ours? In an era where algorithms can predict and potentially manipulate our every move, the lines between personal preference and external influence blur. Join author and pioneer in computational psychology Sandra Matz for an enlightening webinar that delves deep into the world of psychological targeting, as explored in her book MINDMASTERS: The Data-Driven Science of Predicting and Changing Human Behavior. Drawing from her extensive research and personal experiences, she will offer a balanced perspective on how our digital footprints shape our choices, highlighting both the perils and potentials of this technology. From the dark corners of data misuse to the bright possibilities of improving mental health and financial decisions, this webinar will explore the profound impact of psychological targeting on modern society.

Key Takeaways:

- Understand how algorithms influence our daily decisions and the ethical implications of this technology.

- Explore real-life examples of how psychological targeting is used in marketing, politics, and personal development.

- Learn practical strategies to manage your digital footprint and reclaim control over your personal data.

- Discuss how to harness the positive aspects of Big Data to foster healthier, happier lives.

Join us for a riveting exploration of how we can navigate the complexities of a data-driven world, reclaiming control over our decisions and using insights from our digital lives to benefit society as a whole.

Dr. Sandra Matz is an associate professor at a New York Business School and serves as the Center for Advanced Technology and Human Performance director. As a computational social scientist with a psychology and computer science background, she studies human behavior and preferences using a combination of big data analytics and traditional experimental methods. Her research uncovers the hidden relationships between our digital lives and our psychology to help businesses and individuals make better, more ethical decisions. Major news outlets frequently cover Sandra's work, including the Economist, the New York Times, BBC, CNBC, the Wall Street Journal, Business Insider, Inc., WIRED, the Washington Post, Psychology Today, Scientific American, Fortune, Forbes, and more.

The views expressed by presenters are their own and their appearance in a program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by University of Maryland, College Park.