You and a friend are visiting a new city and would like to splurge and go out for a fine meal. You look at the restaurant listings in the newspaper and find one that is very expensive. Your friend says: "Let's go for it. With prices like that, we're bound to have a delicious meal!" In making this statement, your friend was most likely guided by the ____.
A)vacation effect
B)representativeness heuristic
C)contrast effect
D)primacy effect

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Your friend is using the representativeness heuristic, which is a mental shortcut that involves making a decision by comparing the current situation to the most representative mental prototype. In this case, the high price of the meal is being used as a cue that the meal will be delicious, based on the stereotype that more expensive restaurants typically offer better quality food.

You and a Friend Are Visiting a New City and Would