2. First scientific insights into choices and behaviors

The study of behavior has traditionally been approached from a philosophical and moral angle. In every civilization, schools of thought and religions have offered explanations for observed behaviors, and proposed precepts to guide them.

Even if this vision is still present to varying degrees, the phenomenon of behavior has obviously not escaped the "Scientific Revolution" of the 18th century, giving rise to the development of psychology and the social sciences in the 19th century.

It was the theories emanating from these sciences at the beginning of the 20th century that shaped the vision of choices and behaviors that prevailed throughout the last century, and which continues to permeate our understanding of them. Although they were developed in disciplines far removed from health and safety, it is clear that these ideas largely conditioned...