ecological rationality

Ecological rationality refers to the idea that our decision-making strategies are often well-suited to the real-world environments in which we operate. Instead of relying on complex calculations, humans and animals use simple, adaptive rules that have evolved to efficiently handle common challenges. These rules—called heuristics—work well because they align with the structure and patterns of natural settings. In essence, ecological rationality highlights how our mental shortcuts are not flaws but practical tools that help us make effective decisions in everyday life.