gwern comments on Would Your Real Preferences Please Stand Up? - Less Wrong

42 Post author: Yvain 08 August 2009 10:57PM

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Comment author: haig 11 August 2009 06:37:53AM 0 points [-]

You might have misunderstood me. I did not limit akrasia to only things we enjoy. I said actually getting going on the task, whether inherently enjoyable or not, is what 'feels wonderful'. I hate going to the dentist, but actually engaging in the process of going to the office and getting it over with feels pretty good as an accomplishment.

And forming the habit of not procrastinating is a very big part of it, IMO. To stop putting things off and automatically jump into a task is a positive habit that does a great deal against akrasia. Why do you think juvenile delinquents get sent off to boot camp or some other long period of regimented experience. To form those habits which will mold their character accordingly.

Comment author: gwern 12 August 2009 11:01:42PM *  0 points [-]

Would it be evidence against your theory that the benefits of boot camp are not clear for juvenile delinquents?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boot_camp_%28correctional%29#Criticisms