Final answer:
The controlled system in reasoning and decision-making involves effortful and analytical processing, contrasting with automatic processing that utilizes heuristics and is typically used for familiar tasks.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of levels of reasoning and decision-making, the controlled system involves processing that is effortful and analytical. This type of processing requires conscious attention and effort, as it tackles new, unfamiliar, or complex problems. It is in contrast with automatic processing, which is quick, uses mental shortcuts known as heuristics, and is often applied in routine or familiar situations. Examples of controlled processing include navigating a new city, which is much more demanding cognitively than following a well-known route on 'autopilot'.
Cognitive psychology studies various aspects of thinking, including problem-solving, where both heuristics and more analytical intelligence can play a role. While heuristics are efficient and require less cognitive effort, controlled processing is purposeful, conscious, and directed toward complex problem-solving.