System 2

System 2 was created in 2022 by the Behavioural Insights Team and Nesta. Together, we aim to transform the lives of millions of people by designing, testing and scaling solutions to society’s biggest challenges. We tackle complex social issues by combining systems thinking and behavioural science, collaborating deeply with individuals with lived experience. Our relationship with BIT and our sister charity Nesta, give System 2 access to a deep pool of international expertise and the latest evidence on what does and does not work. We combine this global reach and track record, with a strong focus on local partnerships and amplifying the perspectives of under-represented groups. Our Centre for Behavioural and System Change undertakes research aligned to our mission, guided by an experienced Research Committee. We seek to contribute to evidence based public policy discussion and reform, whilst committing to publicising our research to inform and encourage public debate. We believe that charities can enhance their impact by applying a behavioural lens to the design and implementation of their activities. We work with them in a variety of ways, from supporting them to improve their internal capabilities to managing projects that design, test and evaluate possible changes to their interventions. The System 2 name pays homage to the seminal work of Nobel Prize Winner, Professor Daniel Kahneman. His book 'Thinking Fast and Slow' popularised the idea of 'System 2' as the deliberate, reflective part of the brain. Our launch mission is to enable young people experiencing disadvantage to thrive.