Patternv1

Decision-cost-accumulation pattern: the structural tendency

Decision-cost-accumulation pattern: the structural tendency for decisions to deplete cognitive resources cumulatively throughout the day, where each decision — regardless of importance — draws from the same finite pool, making later decisions systematically worse than earlier ones

Why This Is a Pattern

Exemplifies Cognition Operates Through Dual Processing Systems (System 1/2) and Directed Attention as Depletable Resource (attention finite). Recurs in decision fatigue research, shopping behavior, judicial decisions, end-of-day choices.

Source Lessons

L-0441

Decisions are the most expensive cognitive operations

Every decision costs attention and energy — systematic frameworks reduce this cost.

Connections

Exemplifies (2)

AxiomDirected Attention as Depletable Resource AxiomCognition Operates Through Dual Processing Systems

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