Cognit Syscode Academy

policy design

Ethics of Nudges: Defaults, Disclosure, and Autonomy

4 weeks · 22 hours · Reading + memo studio · Online-first

Behavioral policy worksheet comparing opt-in and opt-out designs

We study defaults, disclosure redesigns, and social norms campaigns. You will write ethics memos that include autonomy, dignity, and transparency tests. Debates include when nudges mask cuts to substantive support.

ZAR 450 · informational price · see Returns & Refunds

What is included

  • Ethics checklist adapted from public philosophy and policy practice
  • Mentor-led debates on autonomy versus welfare gains
  • Writing studio for public-facing explainers
  • Optional module on digital nudging and consent
  • Peer review emphasizing clarity of trade-offs
  • Office hours on IRB-style thinking outside academia
  • Case bank on savings defaults and pension auto-enrollment

Outcomes

  1. Assess a nudge proposal with explicit ethical dimensions
  2. Design measurement that captures unintended coercion
  3. Communicate concerns without dismissing behavioral tools entirely
Portrait placeholder for Sarah Benoit

Lead mentor

Sarah Benoit

Philosopher-economist bridging behavioral science and public ethics.

Participant notes

Ethics of Nudges forced me to rewrite a disclosure pilot—turns out our “neutral” framing was not neutral.
Renée · Policy designer
Short course, tight feedback; would enjoy one more week on digital consent.
Owen · 4/5

Questions

It blends philosophy tools with policy memos; neither pure theory nor pure marketing.

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