System 1 vs. System 2 Thinking

It is widely accepted that the human mind is specialized for specific domains. But is there a domain-general mind? Cognitive psychologists concur; however, evolutionary psychologists find this notion too pricy to accept. The specialization of different cognitive processes to handle specific types of information or tasks makes the mind domain specific. This means that the mind is not a single, general-purpose processor capable of handling all types of information equally well, but rather a collection of specialized modules, each optimized for a specific type of information or task.

Most cognitive psychologists now accept the dual-processing theory of the mind, which states that the mind operates in two separate but interconnected systems: the automatic system and the controlled system. The automatic system is a collection of subsystems known as System 1. It is fast, intuitive, and works unconsciously. It is responsible for processing information that is readily available in our memory and has been repeated several times. This system is in charge of our first reactions to situations and emotions. In contrast, the controlled system, or System 2, is slower and more deliberate. It is in charge of conscious thought, reasoning, problem solving, and decision making. This system is more adaptable and flexible, allowing us to override our initial reactions and critically evaluate information. System 1 is often referred to as the “gut feeling” mode of thought because it relies on mental shortcuts known as heuristics to make decisions quickly and efficiently. When the information presented is new, complex, or requires conscious thought, System 2 is used. It is frequently referred to as the “thinking” mode of thought because it relies on effortful processing to reach a conclusion.