This post is my reimagining of a Big Think segment by Dr. Jen Gunter. I realised that I could extract from her principles a broader framework for determining whether any given choice offered to you is a ‘scam’.
1. Is this choice something you really need to do?
I think we can capture most situations where something is offered to us with two main categories:
(1) A choice within something we are already seeking (e.g., you’re fitting a kitchen and are offered the option of installing an extractor fan1); or
(2) A choice offered out of the blue, with no prior suggestion or relation to your needs or desires.
In general, for both of these situations take a step back and sense-check whether the option offered is actually necessary. Check whether there is solid evidence supporting the decision. Is it a recommended course of action?
2. Who is giving you the choice?
I think a character-based lens can be a helpful proxy. In the second type of situation, where something is offered unexpectedly, it makes a big difference whether the recommendation is coming from your personal doctor or from a company salesperson. Is this a sales pitch, or is there an authoritative basis behind it?
3. Has the choice been trusted by a third party?
Finally, have the choice endorsed by a third party. In the case of supplements, that might mean actual lab testing or adherence to standards. For everyday decisions, like choosing a kitchen extractor fan, you can apply a “wisdom of the crowd” approach and sense-check your decision against what others typically do.
A choice within a choice is often an ‘upgrade’ so ignites immediate skepticism that we are being ‘sold something’ - so step 1 is also about dealing with this initial skepticism appropriately. Applying step 1 to the extractor fan, extractor fans are highly recommended because good ventilation can reduce smell, humidity, grease, etc.