Recommended books for testers — “Thinking Fast and Slow: A Journey Through the Mind”

As a software tester, it is essential to understand the intricacies of human behavior and decision-making. That’s where the book “Thinking Fast and Slow” by psychologist Daniel Kahneman comes in.

During a recent webinar with software testing expert Michael Bolton, I had the opportunity to ask him about recommended reading for software testers. Without hesitation, Michael suggested this best-selling book, which has received over 33,000 reviews on Amazon with 92% of readers recommending it.

The book delves into the concept of a dichotomy between two modes of thought — “System 1” and “System 2”. “System 1” is fast, intuitive and emotional, while “System 2” is slower, more deliberative, and logical. Kahneman argues that these two modes of thinking often clash and can lead to biases and incorrect decisions.

As software testers, it is important to be aware of these two modes of thinking and how they can impact our daily work. During our work, we need to be able to switch between being fast, intuitive and emotional, and slower, more deliberative, and logical. This understanding is key to making informed decisions and avoiding potential biases.

The book is a fascinating journey through the human mind, exploring how we make decisions and how our biases and emotions can influence our thinking. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of psychology and the impact it has on our daily lives, especially for software testers.

In conclusion, “Thinking Fast and Slow” is a valuable resource for software testers looking to deepen their understanding of human behavior and decision-making. With its engaging writing style and insightful analysis, this book is sure to be an enriching experience for anyone who decides to read it.