Have you ever wondered why you have certain musical preferences? A new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that personality traits are linked to musical styles, with extraversion positively correlated with contemporary music and openness associated with mellow, contemporary, intense and sophisticated music. Dr. Greenberg, a musician, neuroscientist, and psychologist, says that music could be a powerful bridge between cultures.

Are you a fan of cute animal posts on social media? Have you ever wondered why they make you go "awwww"? A team of researchers at the University of Maryland has been studying the impact of cuteness on our emotions and behaviors, and how it can be used to manipulate us. Their findings, published in Frontiers in Psychology, offer fascinating insights into the science of cuteness, including a recipe for achieving ultimate cuteness. Read on to discover the implications of this research for society, disinformation and national security. (Source: University of Maryland)

Learn how to protect yourself from misinformation! A study by the University of Cambridge and Bristol showed that short animations familiarizing people with tactics behind misinformation can increase their ability to spot it and resist it.

Advertising is designed to attach emotions to brands, and meta-communication (the twiddly bits like music, characters, and setting) is used to do this. We are programmed not to be able to unprocess meta-communication, which means that once we see it, we've got it. To counter-argue the emotion in advertising, we need to watch ads carefully and ask ourselves what they're trying to influence and what's behind the ad. By doing this, we can emotionally counter-argue the ad and feel more in control of our lives. Learning about advertising can help us become more aware of how it affects us and how we can resist its influence. Understanding meta-communication and emotional appeals can also help us in other areas of our lives, such as when making decisions or analyzing information.

Agatha Christie's success as the best-selling novelist of all time was built on her cleverly constructed mystery novels. One of her key techniques was to limit the scope of her stories by setting them in isolated locations, which built tension and limited possible suspects. She also simplified her characters to a handful of simple traits, which made them predictable suspects but also relied on harmful stereotypes. However, she worked to make her characters feel authentic by closely observing the people around her and constantly scribbling down details from overheard conversations. Christie used clues to intentionally mislead her audience, and her most enduring sleuths were outsiders who slipped past security and made suspects let their guard down. By learning these techniques, students can develop their own compelling writing and critical thinking skills.

Are you curious about how attitudes are formed and how they can be changed? The third edition of this book explores the latest scientific methods used to understand attitudes, with a balanced consideration of all approaches. From diverse research threads across the world, this book provides fundamental concepts to better understand attitudes. Discover the flurry of research activity in this dynamic subject over the past few years and gain insight into the complexities of human behavior. Recommended for psychology students, social scientists, and anyone interested in understanding human behavior, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific methods used to study attitudes. Professionals in fields such as marketing, politics, and social advocacy can benefit from the insights gained into how attitudes can be influenced and changed. This book also has relevance for those interested in personal growth and self-reflection, as it explores the complexities of attitudes and how they shape our perceptions and actions.

Are you creative, persuasive, and love to communicate? Have you ever thought about how ads are created and how they impact our daily lives? If so, then studying Advertising at university undergraduate level might be the perfect fit for you! Advertising is a fascinating field that combines creativity, psychology, and business. It is the art of crafting messages that persuade people to take action, whether it is buying a product, supporting a cause, or changing their behavior. Advertising is everywhere, from billboards to social media, and it is a crucial part of the economy and culture. At the forefront of Advertising research and innovation are academic figures such as David Ogilvy, who revolutionized the industry with his creative and data-driven approach, and Rory Sutherland, who challenges traditional advertising methods and highlights the importance of behavioral economics. As an Advertising major, you will study a range of modules such as consumer behavior, branding, media planning, and creative strategy. You will also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as digital advertising, social media, and public relations. Real-life examples of successful advertising campaigns, such as Nike's "Just Do It" or Coca-Cola's "Share a Coke," will inspire you and teach you valuable skills. The Advertising industry is vast, and there are many potential jobs and roles that this field of study can lead to, such as copywriter, art director, media planner, account executive, and market researcher. Key industries for prospective future employment include advertising agencies, media companies, and marketing departments of corporations. Notable and attractive potential employers from public and private sectors around the world include Wieden+Kennedy, BBDO, Ogilvy, Google, and Apple. To succeed in Advertising, you need to have excellent communication skills, creativity, strategic thinking, and a passion for understanding consumer behavior. If you are curious, innovative, and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, then studying Advertising could be the perfect path for you. In conclusion, studying Advertising at university undergraduate level is a fascinating and rewarding experience that can lead to a fulfilling career in a dynamic and exciting industry. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring the world of Advertising today!

Imagine a world where creativity is not just a gift possessed by the lucky few, but a variety of distinct thought processes that we can all learn to use more effectively. Jonah Lehrer's "Imagine" shatters the myth of muses and higher powers, revealing the science of creativity. From the importance of embracing the rut to adopting an outsider's perspective, Lehrer unveils the optimal mix of old and new partners in any creative collaboration. Discover the deep inventiveness of the human mind and its essential role in our increasingly complex world. Recommended for students, professionals, and creatives across all fields, "Imagine" offers a fresh perspective on the science of creativity. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or scientist, Lehrer's insights on thought processes and creative collaboration can help you unlock your full potential. The book also explores the role of creativity in our schools, companies, and neighborhoods, making it relevant to educators, managers, and community leaders alike. With fascinating examples from Bob Dylan's writing habits to Pixar's office space design, "Imagine" is a must-read for anyone seeking to cultivate their creativity and make a meaningful impact in the world.

Do you have a way with words? Are you a natural storyteller? Are you looking for a career that combines creativity, strategy, and communication? Look no further than the exciting field of copywriting! At its core, copywriting is the art and science of writing persuasive and compelling content that motivates people to take action. From advertising slogans to website copy, from social media posts to product descriptions, copywriters are the masterminds behind the words that sell products, services, and ideas. But copywriting is so much more than just writing catchy phrases. It requires a deep understanding of consumer psychology, market trends, and branding strategies. Copywriters must be able to research and analyze target audiences, develop unique selling propositions, and craft messages that resonate with their readers. In the world of copywriting, there are countless innovators and thought leaders who have made significant contributions to the field. From David Ogilvy, the "father of advertising," to Ann Handley, the queen of content marketing, there is no shortage of inspiring figures to learn from. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to study a range of topics, including copywriting fundamentals, marketing strategy, branding, and digital media. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as social media copywriting, email marketing, or SEO writing. With a degree in copywriting, graduates can pursue a variety of exciting career paths. They may work in advertising agencies, marketing firms, or in-house marketing departments for companies in a variety of industries. Some popular job titles include copywriter, content strategist, and creative director. Notable employers include companies like Apple, Nike, and Coca-Cola. To succeed in the field of copywriting, students should possess strong writing skills, creativity, and a passion for storytelling. They should also be able to work collaboratively with other creatives and be comfortable with constructive feedback and revisions. So if you're looking for a career that combines your love of writing with your business savvy, consider studying copywriting at the undergraduate level. With its endless opportunities for creativity and innovation, the world of copywriting is waiting for you!

Lying is a common part of our daily lives, with people telling anywhere from 10 to 200 lies a day. However, detecting lies has been a challenge throughout history, from medieval torture devices to modern-day polygraphs. But what if we focused on analyzing the lies themselves, rather than just the physiological changes that may or may not occur when someone is lying? Communication science has identified four common patterns in the subconscious language of deception: less self-referencing, more negativity, simpler explanations, and longer, more convoluted sentence structures. By being aware of these patterns, you can better spot lies in your daily life. While many lies we encounter may be harmless, being able to recognize them can help you build stronger relationships and make better decisions.

Memes are everywhere, and they're more than just funny pictures on the internet. They're units of culture that spread from person to person, evolving and changing as they go. Learning about memes can help you understand how information competes for our attention and why some ideas become more popular than others. It's not just about being part of a community or expressing yourself - it's about understanding the power of information and how it shapes our world. By exploring memes, you can develop your critical thinking skills and gain a deeper appreciation for the role that culture plays in our lives. So next time you see a meme, don't just laugh - think about what it means and why it's so popular. You might be surprised at what you learn.

Shopping can be an overwhelming experience, with countless options, products, and stimuli vying for our attention. With the rise of sensory marketing, retailers are leveraging our senses to make their products more appealing and influence our buying decisions. Sensory marketing is the strategic use of sensory stimuli - such as sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touch - to create a memorable and immersive shopping experience. In fact, studies have shown that sensory marketing can significantly impact consumer behavior, leading to increased spending, impulse buying, and brand loyalty. One example of this is how some grocery stores use the scent of freshly baked bread or brewing coffee to make their customers feel more at home and relaxed. Similarly, luxury brands may use plush carpets or velvet curtains to create a feeling of exclusivity and opulence. According to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology, sensory marketing can also increase the perceived value of a product. But sensory marketing isn't just about creating a pleasant environment - it can also be used to highlight certain products or influence consumer behavior. For example, retailers may use bright colors or flashing lights to draw attention to a specific display or product. Leading academics in the field of sensory marketing include Aradhna Krishna, a professor at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, and Martin Lindstrom, a marketing expert and author of the book "Brand Sense." By exploring sensory marketing and its impact on consumer behavior, students can gain a deeper understanding of the complex and fascinating world of retail marketing.

Can you distinguish between real and fake news on social media? MIT scholars found that the act of considering whether to share news items reduces people's ability to tell truths from falsehoods by 35%. Learn more about the essential tension between sharing and accuracy in the realm of social media, and the potential implications for online news consumption.

Are you constantly scrolling through Instagram, Twitter and Facebook? Do you find yourself captivated by the power of social media to influence our daily lives? If so, the study of Social Media might be the perfect field for you to explore at university undergraduate level. Social Media is a rapidly-growing field of study that explores the impact of social media on society, politics, economics, and culture. It's a fascinating field that incorporates a wide range of interesting and meaningful aspects of the topic, from the psychology behind social media addiction to the ethics of online privacy. In recent years, there has been an explosion of research and innovation in the field of Social Media, with academics exploring everything from the role of social media in political campaigns to the impact of social media on mental health. Some of the most inspiring academic discourse in this field has come from figures such as danah boyd, who has done groundbreaking research on the intersection of social media and youth culture, and Sherry Turkle, who has explored the impact of technology on our relationships. At the undergraduate level, students typically take courses in areas such as Social Media Marketing, Digital Storytelling, and Online Communities. There are also opportunities for further specialization in areas such as Social Media Analytics and Social Media Management. Some interesting and enticing examples of real-life specializations include working as a Social Media Manager for a major fashion brand, or becoming a Social Media Analyst for a political campaign. The study of Social Media can lead to a wide range of potential future jobs and roles, including Social Media Manager, Digital Marketing Strategist, and Online Community Manager. Key industries for prospective future employment include advertising, public relations, and journalism. Notable potential employers from the public and private sectors around the world include companies such as Google, Facebook, and the United Nations. To succeed in the field of Social Media, it's helpful to have strong communication skills, an interest in technology and marketing, and a passion for understanding how social media shapes our world. If you're interested in exploring this exciting field further, consider studying Social Media at university undergraduate level.

Are you feeling stuck on a problem that seems unsolvable? Well, a new study from MIT and Harvard Medical School researchers suggests that you may come up with a creative solution after a short nap - very short. During the phase when you're drifting between sleep and waking, a state known as sleep onset, the creative mind is particularly fertile, the researchers showed. They also demonstrated, for the first time, that when people are prompted to dream about a particular topic during that sleep phase, they perform much more creatively when later asked to perform three creativity tasks around that topic. Read more about this fascinating study in MIT's Scientific Reports.

Offering a small cash reward for accuracy can help people distinguish between truth and misinformation, according to a study from the University of Cambridge and New York University. The research suggests that social media's "perverse incentives" are a significant factor in the spread of fake news. The study involved four experiments with over 3,300 people from the US, with half offered up to $1 to identify true or false headlines. The incentive made people 31% better at discerning true from fake news. The study also found that incentives reduced partisan division over the truthfulness of news by around 30%.

Brain science supports the idea that universal human rights, such as agency, and freedom from want and fear, are crucial for a healthy society. Brown University scholars introduce "dignity neuroscience" to explain why these concepts have remained largely unchanged throughout history. They argue that societies that fail to offer their citizens such rights can cause lasting neurological and psychological consequences. This paper offers scientific evidence to demonstrate why universal human rights need to be defended and respected across the world.

Are you a creative soul with a passion for storytelling? Do you have a knack for creating compelling content that captivates audiences? Then a degree in Content Creation might be just the thing for you! Content Creation is a dynamic and exciting field that encompasses a wide range of media, including film, television, advertising, social media, and more. It's all about crafting engaging stories that resonate with people and leave a lasting impact. In this field, you'll learn about the art and science of storytelling, exploring the psychology of audiences and the techniques used to capture their attention. You'll also delve into the technical aspects of content creation, including writing, filming, editing, and post-production. One of the most exciting things about Content Creation is the constant innovation and experimentation taking place. From virtual reality to interactive storytelling, there's always something new and exciting to explore. You'll have the opportunity to learn from some of the most innovative minds in the industry, including academic figures like Henry Jenkins and their contributions to the field. At the undergraduate level, you'll typically take courses in areas like screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and sound design. You'll also have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas, such as documentary filmmaking or social media content creation. After graduation, there are a wide range of potential career paths open to you. You could work in film and television production, advertising, social media marketing, or even start your own content creation company. Notable employers in this field include Netflix, Disney, and Buzzfeed, among others. To succeed in this field, you'll need a combination of creativity, technical skills, and a passion for storytelling. You should also have strong communication skills and be able to work well in a team environment. So if you're ready to unleash your creativity and embark on an exciting career path, consider studying Content Creation at the undergraduate level. Who knows where your imagination will take you?

Are you a social media guru? Do you love creating content and engaging with people online? If so, a career as a Digital Community Manager might be the perfect fit for you! As a Digital Community Manager, you'll be responsible for building and managing an online community for a brand or organization. This can include managing social media accounts, creating engaging content, and responding to customer inquiries and feedback. Essentially, you'll be the voice and face of the brand online, so strong communication skills and a creative mind are essential. One of the most exciting aspects of this field is the opportunity to work with a wide range of industries and organizations. From fashion brands to tech startups, you'll have the chance to work with companies that align with your interests and passions. Some of the typical duties of a Digital Community Manager include creating and curating content for social media platforms, monitoring and responding to customer feedback, and analyzing data to track engagement and growth. Depending on the organization you work for, you may also have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area, such as influencer marketing or event planning. To excel in this field, you'll need a strong understanding of social media platforms and trends, as well as excellent communication and writing skills. A degree in marketing, communications, or a related field can be helpful, but many Digital Community Managers have backgrounds in journalism, graphic design, or even psychology. Job prospects for Digital Community Managers are on the rise, with an expected growth rate of 10% over the next decade. Some notable employers in this field include Nike, Airbnb, and Coca-Cola, as well as a variety of startups and small businesses. In summary, a career as a Digital Community Manager offers the opportunity to work with a diverse range of industries while utilizing your creativity and social media skills. With a growing demand for this role, the possibilities for career growth and success are endless.

In recent years, avocado toast has become a popular breakfast option, largely thanks to the power of food marketing. The rise of social media platforms has created a culture of food photography, where visually stunning dishes like avocado toast are widely celebrated and shared. Capitalizing on this trend, food companies have tapped into the influence of social media influencers to promote their products, creating an avocado toast craze that has driven its popularity. Another factor contributing to the success of avocado toast is the health benefits of avocados themselves. These superfoods are high in healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a desirable breakfast option for health-conscious consumers. Food companies have marketed avocado toast as a nutritious option, further fueling its popularity. But beyond the obvious appeals of social media and health claims, the psychology of food marketing delves deeper into our motivations for loving avocado toast. For example, the concept of "social proof" plays a significant role in our decision-making. We tend to look to others to determine what is popular and desirable, and seeing others enjoying avocado toast only reinforces our own desire to try it. Additionally, the "scarcity principle" is at play in the appeal of avocado toast. This dish is relatively expensive and not easily made at home, which makes it more desirable to those who value exclusivity and luxury. Experts in the field of food marketing, such as Dr. Brian Wansink and Dr. John W. Pracejus, have conducted extensive research on the psychology of food marketing and its impact on consumer behavior. Their work has identified several psychological factors at play in the popularity of avocado toast. Overall, the psychology of food marketing is a fascinating and complex topic that offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and research. By examining the various influences that contribute to the appeal of avocado toast, we can gain insight into the ways in which food marketing shapes our desires and behavior.