Slemons' Theorem

Slemons' Theorem describes how the timing of a scheduled event affects people's expectations and behaviors. It states that when an event's timing is uncertain and communicated vaguely, individuals tend to anticipate it happening sooner rather than later, leading to an "early anticipation" effect. Conversely, if the timing is well-defined or uncertain in a way that causes people to expect it later, anticipation shifts accordingly. This theorem helps explain how the framing and clarity of schedules influence individual perceptions and responses, especially in economic or social contexts where expectations impact decision-making.