Time Preference Rate. “The Marshmallow Tale” by Joachim de Posada and Ellen Singer describes the “Marshmallow Experiment” at Stanford University. The experimenter left the child alone in the room and gave the child a marshmallow, instructing the child to eat it immediately. However, if the child did not eat it within 15 minutes, the experimenter would give the child another marshmallow. Some children waited the full 15 minutes, while others stopped waiting early. These two groups were followed for 14 years, and as a result, the more patient children showed better social and mental abilities. Those who cannot tolerate waiting are said to have a high time preference rate, while those who are patient are described as having a low time preference rate. In investment, high and low time preference ratios are not necessarily good or bad because many investments depend on luck. The key is to find and stick to methods and principles that match one’s own tendencies. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Some question the need for ethics and a mission in business, even when the company is profitable. A transaction involves meeting needs and recognizing values, both of which connect to “morality.” Trust underpins all transactions, and morality is its foundation. While anyone can err, it is our moral obligation to make amends. Though it may be tempting to disregard that morality by persisting in trade, there are decisions that, without an ethical framework, can lead to irreversible consequences. This is not merely a mistake. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”