There’s plenty of debate out there among people far more literate in science and economics than I regarding the merits of neuroeconomics, including questions about whether it’s one discipline or the other or just another fancy term coined to codify otherwise unexplainable behavior. Since Jason Zweig has worked at various times for Time, Forbes and Money magazines, he knows how to simplify fiscal language and explain things in an interesting way, which makes Your Money and Your Brain: How The New Science of Neuroeconomics Can Help Make You Rich a lot more fun than it might sound.
Suggestions for improving your money management behavior range from resisting exposure to such images as stock tickers and closing bells (they provoke pain in the brain) to avoiding decisions based solely on short-term rewards (too impulsive and indicative of a dangerous trend if repeated). Many of Zweig’s recommendations would work for anyone regardless of genetic factors, so even those doubtful of the link between biology and finance can benefit from his advice. Your Money and Your Brain is consistently enjoyable and filled with fascinating facts that will make you pause before making another misguided investment decision.
