Giving your time can strengthen your moral identity and benefit society more than just donating money, according to a new study from the University of Cambridge. Learn how 'moral cues' can activate moral identity and overcome 'time aversion' in charitable giving, and discover how you can make a difference by exploring this fascinating research.

Charitable organizations can increase contributions by simply offering multiple-choice options for donations, according to research by Wharton Professor Alice Moon and Eric VanEpps, marketing professor at the University of Utah. By giving specific amounts to choose from, such as $5, $10 or $50, donors contribute more frequently and feel less pressure to give too much or too little.

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.

Customers feel better when decisions are made in their favor by a person rather than an algorithm. But why is this the case? A new paper by Wharton marketing professor Stefano Puntoni and colleagues explores the psychological reasons behind customer's positive and negative reactions to decisions made by humans vs algorithms.

Want to increase sales in retail stores? Research by Dr. Elisa Schweiger and her team at the University of Bath suggests that incorporating mixed reality promotions can capture attention and increase sales by up to 62%! Product holograms and video projections can enliven end-of-aisle shelves and provide a unique shopping experience. Even simple mixed reality projections of images of pasta and sauce with a moving price tag projected onto an endcap can be effective. Read on to find out more about this innovative approach to retail marketing.

Have you ever been lured into purchasing a product because of a big discount, only to find out that the item was actually overpriced to begin with? This is a common tactic used by companies to manipulate consumer behavior and increase their profits. The concept of consumer product discounting has been studied by leading academics such as Marketing Professor Pradeep K. Chintagunta of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, who has written extensively on the topic. He explains that companies use discounts to create an illusion of savings and manipulate consumer perception of value. Studies have shown that discounts have a psychological impact on consumers, making them more likely to purchase products that they may not have otherwise considered. In fact, a report by Forbes found that discounts are the most effective marketing tool for increasing sales. However, this can come at the expense of the consumer, who may not be getting the best value for their money. For example, companies may use "dynamic pricing" to adjust the price of a product based on demand. This means that prices may be inflated during peak times, and then discounted to create the illusion of a good deal. This can be seen in the travel industry, where prices for flights and hotels can change multiple times a day. Another tactic companies use is "price anchoring", where they display a high original price for a product, or show prices of alternative products, in order to make the product they are trying to sell seem like a better deal. For example, a retailer may list the original price of a shirt as $100, but offer it for a discounted price of $50. Or, a tech company may display the "basic" version of their anti-malware programme at $20/month and "premium" version at $30/month, making the more expensive version seem like a greater deal for an additional $10/month. Consumers may see this as a great deal, even though they may have never considered purchasing the shirt at the full price or the premium version of the anti-malware programme. It's important to be an informed consumer and to do your research before making a purchase. Check the original price of the product and compare it to prices from other retailers to ensure that you're getting the best value for your money.

Information overload is a growing concern in today's world, where technology has made it easier for businesses to access vast amounts of data. However, this has led to the paradox of too much information and too little time, leading to individuals and organizations struggling to make informed decisions. The impact of information overload on decision making has become a major topic of discussion among leading academics, such as Daniel Kahneman and Richard Thaler, who have explored the role of heuristics and biases in decision making. Studies have shown that individuals who have access to more information tend to experience increased anxiety and stress, leading to poor decision making and decision avoidance. Businesses have taken advantage of this by presenting their customers with an overwhelming amount of information to make their decision more difficult, often leading to impulsive purchases. This practice, known as 'nudge theory', was popularized by Thaler and Cass Sunstein, who argued that by presenting individuals with a small change to the environment, they can be influenced to make a different decision. An example of how businesses use information overload to their advantage is the use of advertisements on social media. Advertisers use algorithms to determine which advertisements to show to each user, often leading to an endless scroll of irrelevant or unwanted advertisements. This leads to individuals feeling overwhelmed and bombarded, often leading to impulsive purchases, simply to make the advertisements stop. To prevent falling victim to information overload and poor decision making, it is important to practice critical thinking and to seek out reliable sources of information. This can be done by asking questions, seeking out multiple perspectives, and by taking the time to reflect on one's own thoughts and feelings. In conclusion, by understanding how businesses use information overload to their advantage, we can make more informed decisions and take control of our own lives.

Have you ever wondered why people from different parts of the world act and live so differently? In "The Culture Code," cultural anthropologist and marketing expert Clotaire Rapaille reveals the secret techniques he has used for decades to help companies like Chrysler, Procter & Gamble, and L'Oréal improve their practices and profitability. Rapaille's groundbreaking notion is that we acquire a silent system of Codes as we grow up within our culture, which invisibly shape how we behave in our personal lives. By decoding two dozen of our most fundamental archetypes, Rapaille gives us "a new set of glasses" to view our actions and motivations, providing unprecedented freedom over our lives. Recommended for anyone interested in understanding the hidden clues to human behavior and the factors that shape our actions and motivations. This book might be particularly relevant to students of anthropology, marketing, psychology, sociology, and cultural studies, as well as professionals in business, advertising, and international relations. It also appeals to anyone curious about cultural differences and the impact of culture on our daily lives. The Culture Code provides a fascinating look at how our cultural background shapes our behavior and offers practical insights into how we can decode these cultural codes to achieve a better understanding of ourselves and others.

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!

Did you know that what you wear can say a lot about your attitudes and values? In fact, the clothes we choose to wear are often an expression of our identity and can communicate important messages to others. This is the essence of Katz's Function of Attitudes, a theory in social psychology that examines the ways in which attitudes serve different functions, including value-expressive attitudes. Value-expressive attitudes are those that reflect our identity and values and are often expressed through the things we wear, such as clothing, jewelry, and accessories. For example, someone who is passionate about environmentalism may wear sustainable and ethically produced clothing to express their values. Similarly, someone who values professionalism may dress in business attire to communicate their dedication to their career. One interesting fact is that the fashion industry is a multi-billion dollar industry that is driven by the desire for self-expression and identity. According to a report by Statista, the global apparel market is expected to be worth $1.5 trillion by 2020. This shows that people are willing to invest in their identity and values through what they wear. The concept of Katz's Function of Attitudes was first introduced by Daniel Katz, a renowned social psychologist who was also known for his work on organizational psychology. In his research, Katz highlighted the importance of understanding the different functions that attitudes serve, including value-expressive attitudes. Other leading academics in this field include Leon Festinger, who is best known for his work on cognitive dissonance, and Elliot Aronson, who has contributed significantly to the field of social influence and persuasion. In conclusion, our clothing choices can reveal a great deal about our values, beliefs, and attitudes. Through the concept of Katz's Function of Attitudes and the research of leading academics in the field of social psychology, we can gain a deeper understanding of how our clothing choices express our identity and communicate important messages to others. So go ahead, express yourself through your clothing choices, and continue to explore the fascinating world of social psychology and fashion.

Have you ever felt trapped in a decision because of the money or time you've already invested? You're not alone. Many of us have fallen prey to the sunk cost fallacy, where we continue to invest in a failing project or relationship because we don't want to waste what we've already put into it. But why do we do this? What factors influence our decision-making? And what can we do to avoid making poor choices based on sunk costs? According to behavioral economists, the answer lies in our human psychology. We tend to focus on past investments rather than future costs and benefits, leading us to overvalue sunk costs and make irrational decisions. Research by leading academics in this field, such as Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, has shown that our decision-making is also influenced by factors such as loss aversion, social norms, and emotions. For example, a study by Neil Stewart and his team found that participants were more likely to continue playing a rigged gambling game when they had already lost money, rather than cutting their losses and quitting the game. Similarly, studies have shown that people are more likely to invest in failing projects when their peers are also doing so, due to social pressure and the fear of missing out. So, what can we do to avoid making poor decisions based on sunk costs? One solution is to focus on future costs and benefits, rather than past investments. We should also be aware of the factors that influence our decision-making and try to avoid making impulsive or emotional choices. By exploring these ideas and delving deeper into the psychology of sunk costs, students can develop their critical thinking skills and gain a better understanding of the factors that influence their own decision-making.

Costly signaling, in which people display their wealth to seem desirable, has been around for a while now! From high-end Rolex watches to modest co-workers, discover how we use wealth, status and behavior to impress others and how game theory explains this seemingly irrational behavior.

Do you ever wonder why you choose certain products over others? Or why you feel a certain way towards a brand or advertisement? If you find yourself interested in the psychology behind consumer decision-making, then Consumer Behavior might just be the field of study for you! Consumer Behavior is the study of how individuals and groups make decisions about what they buy, use, and dispose of. It incorporates elements of psychology, sociology, and economics to understand the complex factors that influence consumer behavior. One interesting aspect of Consumer Behavior is the concept of brand loyalty. Have you ever noticed that you always buy a certain brand of shampoo or cereal, even though there are other options available? This is because of the emotional connection you have with that brand, which has been carefully cultivated through marketing strategies and brand identity. Academic figures like Philip Kotler and Herbert Simon have made significant contributions to the field of Consumer Behavior. Kotler is known for his work on marketing management and consumer behavior, while Simon received the Nobel Prize in Economics for his research on decision-making in organizations. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in Consumer Behavior include marketing, psychology, and consumer research. Further specialization can be pursued in areas such as digital marketing, brand management, and market research. With a degree in Consumer Behavior, there are a variety of potential future jobs and roles that this field of study might be directly helpful for. These include roles in advertising, market research, and public relations. Notable employers in this field include companies like Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, and Google. To succeed in Consumer Behavior, it's helpful to have strong analytical skills, an understanding of human behavior, and an interest in marketing and advertising. If you're fascinated by the psychology behind consumer decision-making, then Consumer Behavior might be the perfect field of study for you!

In "Priceless," William Poundstone uncovers the psychology behind how prices are determined and how they influence our decision-making. From the pricing strategies of Prada to the hypnotic effect of 99 cents, Poundstone reveals how prices are a collective hallucination that marketers and retailers use to convince consumers to pay more for less. Discover the hidden persuaders behind price tags, menus, ads, and even corporate buyouts in this fascinating exploration of the new psychology of price. Recommended for anyone interested in marketing, economics, psychology, or negotiation, "Priceless" offers valuable insights into the strategies used by retailers and businesspeople to influence our purchasing decisions. This book might be particularly relevant to students of business or marketing, as well as professionals in these fields. However, anyone who has ever wondered why they are willing to pay more for a product simply because it has a higher price tag will find this book illuminating. Additionally, those interested in consumer behavior, decision-making, or the intersection of psychology and economics will find "Priceless" to be a thought-provoking read.

Have you ever found yourself struggling to resist the temptation of immediate gratification, even when you know it's not in your best long-term interest? If so, you've experienced the cognitive bias of intertemporal discounting, a fascinating and pervasive phenomenon in human decision-making. Intertemporal discounting is the tendency to place greater value on immediate rewards than on delayed rewards, even if the latter is objectively more significant. This bias can lead to a range of harmful behaviors, from overspending and procrastination to addiction and poor health choices. But why do we succumb to intertemporal discounting, and what can we do about it? One leading theory suggests that our brains are wired to prioritize short-term gains because our evolutionary ancestors needed to survive in a constantly changing and uncertain environment. Another theory suggests that cultural and societal factors, such as advertising and peer pressure, also play a role in shaping our discounting behavior. Regardless of the underlying causes, the consequences of intertemporal discounting are clear. For example, research has shown that people who discount the future more heavily are more likely to be overweight, have lower academic achievement, and experience more financial difficulties. However, understanding and addressing intertemporal discounting is not just important for individuals. It has broader implications for public policy and the economy. For instance, policymakers need to take into account the fact that people often prioritize short-term benefits over long-term costs, which can lead to unsustainable policies and practices. So, what can we do to mitigate the effects of intertemporal discounting? One approach is to increase awareness and education about the bias, so people can recognize when it's happening and make more deliberate, future-oriented decisions. Another approach is to use behavioral interventions, such as rewards and reminders, to nudge people towards more patient and thoughtful decision-making. Leading academics in this field include Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman, who developed prospect theory, and George Ainslie, who proposed the hyperbolic discounting model. Their research has shed light on the complex and multifaceted nature of intertemporal discounting and its impact on human behavior. By exploring the cognitive bias of intertemporal discounting, you can gain a deeper understanding of human decision-making and learn strategies to make better choices for yourself and for society as a whole.

Have you ever wondered how some companies are able to achieve remarkable success while others struggle to stay afloat? The answer often lies in the field of Organizational Development, a fascinating area of study that focuses on improving the effectiveness and efficiency of organizations. Organizational Development is all about identifying and implementing positive changes within an organization to help it function better. This can include everything from improving communication and teamwork to streamlining processes and procedures. By making these changes, organizations can become more productive, profitable, and successful. One of the most interesting aspects of Organizational Development is the way it draws on a wide range of disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and business. This interdisciplinary approach has led to some truly innovative research and insights into how organizations can be improved. For example, researchers have found that creating a positive work culture can have a huge impact on employee engagement, retention, and productivity. If you're interested in studying Organizational Development, you can expect to take courses in topics like leadership, change management, and organizational behavior. At the undergraduate level, you might major in Business Administration with a focus on Organizational Development. However, there are also graduate programs specifically dedicated to this field. One of the great things about Organizational Development is that it can lead to a wide range of career paths. Graduates might go on to work in HR, management consulting, or even start their own consulting firms. Some notable employers in this field include McKinsey & Company, Deloitte, and Accenture. To succeed in Organizational Development, you'll need to be a strong communicator, a critical thinker, and someone who enjoys working with people. A background in psychology, sociology, or business can also be helpful. If you're passionate about helping organizations reach their full potential, a career in Organizational Development might be just what you're looking for.

Are you someone who loves to solve puzzles, uncover hidden insights, and make informed decisions? If so, then a career in market research might be the perfect fit for you! Market research is a dynamic field that involves gathering and analyzing data to help businesses make informed decisions about their products and services. From identifying consumer trends to developing new marketing strategies, market researchers play a vital role in shaping the success of companies around the world. As a market researcher, you'll have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, from conducting surveys and focus groups to analyzing sales data and social media trends. You'll need to be comfortable working with numbers and data, but you'll also need strong communication skills to help you present your findings in a clear and compelling way. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in market research is the variety of specializations available. You could focus on consumer behavior, product development, or even political polling. And with the rise of big data and artificial intelligence, there are even more opportunities to use cutting-edge technology to uncover insights and drive business success. To get started in market research, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as marketing, statistics, or psychology. Some popular undergraduate programs include Marketing Research, Data Science, and Business Analytics. And if you're looking to specialize further, you might consider pursuing a master's degree in market research or a related field. In addition to technical skills, there are a few key personal attributes that can help you succeed in market research. You'll need to be curious, creative, and analytical, with a strong attention to detail and the ability to think critically. And because market research often involves working with clients and stakeholders, you'll need to be a strong communicator with excellent interpersonal skills. The job prospects for market researchers are strong, with a projected growth rate of 18% over the next decade. And because market research is a global industry, there are opportunities to work for a wide range of public and private sector employers around the world. Some notable companies that hire market researchers include Nielsen, Kantar, Ipsos, and GfK. So if you're looking for a career that combines data analysis, problem-solving, and creativity, then market research might be the perfect fit for you. With a range of specializations, strong job prospects, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, market research is a field that offers endless possibilities for growth and success.

Are you fascinated by the power of data and how it can be used to drive business decisions? Do you want to be at the forefront of the digital revolution in marketing? If so, studying Marketing Analytics could be the perfect fit for you. Marketing Analytics is a dynamic and exciting field that combines traditional marketing principles with cutting-edge data analysis techniques. It involves using data to understand consumer behavior, optimize marketing strategies, and measure the effectiveness of marketing campaigns. In recent years, Marketing Analytics has become increasingly important as businesses seek to gain a competitive edge in the digital age. Major companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook rely heavily on Marketing Analytics to drive their business decisions and stay ahead of the curve. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to study a range of modules including data analysis, statistics, consumer behavior, and marketing strategy. They will also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as social media marketing, digital advertising, and e-commerce. One of the most exciting aspects of studying Marketing Analytics is the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain practical experience. Students may have the chance to work with companies to analyze their data and provide insights into their marketing strategies. After graduation, there are a wide range of potential career paths for Marketing Analytics graduates. Some of the most popular roles include data analyst, marketing analyst, digital marketing manager, and market research analyst. Graduates may find employment in a variety of industries, including e-commerce, retail, finance, and healthcare. Some of the most notable employers in the field of Marketing Analytics include Google, Amazon, Facebook, Procter & Gamble, and McKinsey & Company. These companies offer exciting opportunities for graduates to work on cutting-edge projects and make a real impact in the industry. To succeed in Marketing Analytics, students should have a strong background in math and statistics, as well as a passion for marketing and consumer behavior. They should also be comfortable working with data and have strong analytical skills. Overall, studying Marketing Analytics is an exciting and rewarding experience that can open up a world of opportunities in the digital age. If you're interested in the intersection of data and marketing, this could be the perfect field for you.

Does money buy happiness? Research shows that, on average, larger incomes are associated with ever-increasing levels of happiness. But the relationship becomes more complex when considering emotional well-being. An adversarial collaboration between researchers from Princeton and Penn universities reconciles contradictory findings and shows that, while most people experience greater happiness with larger incomes, an unhappy cohort in each income group shows a sharp rise in happiness up to $100,000 annually and then plateaus. For everyone else, more money was associated with higher happiness to somewhat varying degrees.

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.