Lecture Notes: "What's My Idol?"

Introduction to Behavioral Science Through "What's My Idol?"

Activity Introduction:
- "What's My Idol" is a game played in the first sessions of the class.
- Inspired by the work of St. Thomas Aquinas, focusing on behavioral aspects rather than religious ones.

Behavioral Science Insight:
- Aquinas identified that people chase certain idols (money, power, pleasure, honor) which often lead to regret.
- Behavioral Idols: They beckon falsely; empirical evidence shows chasing idols leads to unmet desires and regret.

Purpose: Help students identify personal idols by elimination.
Process:
1. Identify Four Idols: Money, power, pleasure, honor (prestige/fame).
2. Elimination Method: Determine which idol is least significant by eliminating one at a time.
3. Population Mean: Eliminating an idol means you have the average level of it.

Elimination Sequence:
1. Power:
  - Reason: Disinterest in exerting control over others; discomfort with power dynamics.
2. Money:
  - Reason: Taste and discernment can substitute money; not much that interests with material wealth.
  - Money provides opportunities, but not primary interest.
3. Pleasure:
  - Reason: Self-discipline and low priority on sensual pleasure.
Remaining Idol: Honor (prestige/fame).
- Temptation: Driven by a desire for recognition.
- Personal Insight: Acknowledge its influence and manage it.

Power Over Others:
- Discomfort with hierarchical structures and the passive-aggressive nature of power.
- Leadership experience revealed a dislike for being called "boss."
Money as Opportunity:
- Money opens avenues but can bring unhappiness.
- Culture allows obtaining nearly everything needed for minimal costs.

Temptation Management:
- Acknowledge the temptation of honor.
- Use knowledge to manage personal desires and decisions.

Understanding Personal Idols:
- Helps students avoid errors and feel empowered on their life journey.
- Encourages envisioning future pathways in a multi-dimensional manner.