Do You Think Like A Freak?
Let your inner Freak flag fly. Do you think like a Freak? Take this quiz to see if you think like a Freak, based on the principles of thought presented in Think Like a Freak, the new book by the authors of Freakonomics.
Find out if YOU think like a FREAK in 10 quick questions.
- 1.
What are the three hardest words for people to say?
- A.
I love you
- B.
I don't know
- C.
I give up
Correct Answer
B. I don't knowExplanation
The three hardest words for people to say are "I don't know." This is because admitting that we don't have the answer or knowledge can make us feel vulnerable or incompetent. It requires humility and self-awareness to acknowledge our limitations and seek help or further information. Many individuals struggle with the fear of being judged or seen as unintelligent, which makes it difficult for them to admit when they lack knowledge or understanding.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What helped struggling Chinese students improve their performance?
- A.
They were paid a large sum of money to study
- B.
They had their eyes tested
- C.
They were punished for wrong answers
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
B. They had their eyes testedExplanation
Having their eyes tested helped struggling Chinese students improve their performance because vision problems can negatively impact a student's ability to read, write, and comprehend information. By identifying and correcting any vision issues, these students were able to see more clearly and effectively engage in their studies, leading to improved performance.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What is ultracrepidarianism?
- A.
A conservative form of government
- B.
The study of miniature furniture
- C.
The habit of giving opinions and advice on matters outside of one's knowledge or competence
Correct Answer
C. The habit of giving opinions and advice on matters outside of one's knowledge or competenceExplanation
Ultracrepidarianism refers to the habit of giving opinions and advice on subjects or matters that one has little or no knowledge or expertise in. This behavior often involves individuals expressing their views confidently and assertively, even though they lack the necessary qualifications or understanding. Ultracrepidarianism can be seen as a form of overstepping boundaries and can lead to misinformation or misguided advice being spread.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What is one of the most effective treatments for digestive ailments that antibiotics won't cure?
- A.
Surgery
- B.
Drugs
- C.
Feces
Correct Answer
C. FecesExplanation
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is one of the most effective treatments for digestive ailments that antibiotics won't cure. FMT involves transferring fecal matter from a healthy donor into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient, which helps to restore the balance of bacteria in the gut. This procedure has shown promising results in treating conditions like Clostridium difficile infection, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. FMT is believed to be effective because it replenishes the gut with beneficial bacteria that can help alleviate symptoms and restore normal gut function.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Japanese competitive eating champion Takeru Kobayashi demolished the old record at the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest, virtually doubling it, by:
- A.
Practicing at all-you-can-eat restaurants
- B.
Swallowing stones to expand his stomach
- C.
Learning a new way of eating
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. Learning a new way of eatingExplanation
The correct answer is "Learning a new way of eating." This is because Takeru Kobayashi demolished the old record by using a technique or method of eating that was different from the traditional way. This suggests that he learned a new approach to eating hot dogs, which allowed him to consume them at a much faster rate and ultimately break the previous record.Rate this question:
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- 6.
In soccer, where is a penalty kick most likely to succeed?
- A.
Right corner
- B.
Left corner
- C.
Dead center
Correct Answer
C. Dead centerExplanation
A penalty kick is most likely to succeed when taken dead center because it is the hardest spot for the goalkeeper to reach. By aiming for dead center, the kicker reduces the chances of the goalkeeper diving to either side and making a save. Additionally, kicking dead center gives the kicker a larger margin for error, as even if the goalkeeper guesses correctly, the ball is more likely to go past them due to the power and accuracy required to save a shot in that position.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What was the biggest factor in motivating people in California to use less electricity?
- A.
Their neighbors were doing it
- B.
It protects the environment
- C.
It saves money
Correct Answer
A. Their neighbors were doing itExplanation
The biggest factor in motivating people in California to use less electricity was the influence of their neighbors. When people observe their neighbors conserving electricity, it creates a social norm and a sense of peer pressure to follow suit. This phenomenon is known as social proof or the bandwagon effect, where individuals tend to imitate the behaviors of others in order to fit in or be perceived as socially acceptable. Therefore, seeing their neighbors using less electricity would have motivated people to do the same in order to conform to the societal expectation.Rate this question:
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- 8.
People who focus on small problems:
- A.
Are afraid to tackle larger issues
- B.
Know that focusing on small questions can at least lead to practical solutions
- C.
Have small minds
Correct Answer
B. Know that focusing on small questions can at least lead to practical solutionsExplanation
The correct answer suggests that people who focus on small problems understand the value of addressing them as it can lead to practical solutions. It implies that these individuals recognize the importance of breaking down larger issues into smaller, manageable components in order to find effective solutions. It does not imply that they are afraid to tackle larger issues or that they have small minds.Rate this question:
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- 9.
How did the Smile Train charity increase their donations?
- A.
They did a media blitz, including weekly mailings to prospective donors
- B.
They let new donors ask to never receive another fund-raising letter again
- C.
They focused on a few wealthy patrons
Correct Answer
B. They let new donors ask to never receive another fund-raising letter againExplanation
The Smile Train charity increased their donations by allowing new donors to opt-out of receiving any further fundraising letters. This approach respects the preferences of the donors and reduces the likelihood of them feeling overwhelmed or annoyed by constant solicitations. By giving donors the choice to opt-out, the charity is likely to build trust and maintain a positive relationship with them, ultimately encouraging continued support and potentially attracting more donations in the long run.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What is the biggest stumbling block for people who want to think like a Freak?
- A.
They go along with everyone else
- B.
They are too busy to learn a different way of thinking
- C.
They are influenced by their biases
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The biggest stumbling block for people who want to think like a Freak is a combination of all the options mentioned. Firstly, going along with everyone else prevents individuals from challenging conventional wisdom and thinking outside the box. Secondly, being too busy to learn a different way of thinking hinders the ability to invest time and effort into developing a new mindset. Lastly, being influenced by biases limits one's ability to approach problems objectively and consider alternative perspectives. Therefore, all these factors collectively act as obstacles for those who aspire to think like a Freak.Rate this question:
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Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Oct 05, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Apr 19, 2014Quiz Created by
Lynn Grady
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