Final answer:
Selective attention improves reaction time by allowing a person to focus on the relevant task while ignoring distractions. It is part of the 'thinking fast' system described by Daniel Kahneman and is essential for activities that require quick responses, while also being beneficial for effective study habits and learning.
Step-by-step explanation:
Blocking out what your opponents are saying can help to improve a person's reaction time by utilizing a psychological technique called selective attention. This approach involves focusing on a specific task while filtering out irrelevant information and distractions. The concept aligns with the psychological theory of thinking fast and thinking slow, as described by Daniel Kahneman. In situations where fast, intuitive thinking (system 1) is advantageous, like in sports or time-sensitive decisions, selective attention helps to streamline cognitive processes and enhance reaction times. Conversely, slow thinking (system 2) requires more cognitive efforts and is more deliberate, which can be crucial in complex decision-making but may impair rapid responses.
For example, when Jose Sharco attempts to sink the eight ball by concentrating and blocking out distractions, he is employing selective attention to enhance his performance. Similarly, reducing interference and distractions can aid students in study habits by promoting metacognition and effective learning processes. It is important to find a quiet study environment and allow yourself time to reflect, facilitating better learning and understanding of the material.