Robyn Dawes

Robyn Dawes was a distinguished Professor at Carnegie Mellon University in the Social and Decision Sciences department within the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. His research focused on human judgment, decision-making processes, social dilemmas, and critiques of psychotherapy. He authored influential books such as House of Cards: Psychology and Psychotherapy Built on Myth and Rational Choice in an Uncertain World, earning accolades like the William James Award (1990) from the American Psychological Association. His work challenged conventional assumptions in psychology and emphasized evidence-based practices.

Key research contributions include the robustness of simple linear models in prediction (American Psychologist, 1979), analysis of social cooperation dynamics (Journal of Economic Perspectives, 1988), and foundational studies on social dilemmas (Annual Review of Psychology, 1980). His interdisciplinary approach bridged psychology, economics, and public policy.

Award highlights:

• William James Award (APA, 1990) for Rational Choice in an Uncertain World

Advising and grants: No specific advisees or grant details recorded in available texts. His legacy includes fostering critical inquiry into psychological practices and decision science.