Predictably irrational or cunning marketers are attacking

There is a great book by Dan Ariely - Predictably Irrational . The book is about how we, rational, highly developed beings (with which we consider ourselves), perform the same irrational actions.

If possible - be sure to read. I just want to give a curious example from the first chapter:

You can choose from 3 types of subscriptions to your favorite magazine:
A. Online access to articles - $ 59 per year
B. Printed magazine by mail - $ 125 per year
C. Online access + printed copy - $ 125 per year (this is not a typo).
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MIT students (where Dan teaches) were asked to choose a subscription they would buy.

Results:
A. Online access - 16 students
B. Print version - 0 students.
C. Online access + print version - 84 students

And now the option "B" removed. What were the results? (do not guess;)


The results of the second survey:
A. Online access - 68 students (there were 16)
C. Online access and print version - 32 students (there were 84).

Why is that? These prices and subscription options advertised by The Economist. Immediately clear - the marketing department there does not get their salary for nothing.

For those who can not enjoy reading the book - option "B" - the bait.
We do not know if “C” is better than “A”, but it is clearly visible that “C” is better than “B”. Therefore, we conclude that “C” is better than “A”.

Read about this and other witty experiments in the book.

PS: That is why it is better to go to clubs with a friend, if you know how to communicate or are more likeable. This will give you an advantage not only in comparison with him, but also with the rest.