Modern Wisdom #292 - Rob Henderson - Signalling: Why You Do The Things You Do
5 snips
Mar 8, 2021 
Rob Henderson, a PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge and US Air Force veteran, discusses the fascinating world of signaling in human behavior. He reveals how our subconscious actions, like driving flashy cars or flaunting expensive pens, communicate our status. Henderson also explores the link between public speaking and social stress and how group dynamics often bond over shared dislikes. Delving into social hierarchies, he explains the evolution of status signaling, including concepts like counter-signaling and its psychological implications.
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Constant Signaling
- People constantly signal information about themselves, often unconsciously.
- Even claiming not to care about others' opinions is a signal.
Pens and Cars
- Executives in a study unconsciously signaled status by escalating the number of expensive pens on their desks.
- Similarly, men standing near luxury cars are rated as more attractive.
Costly Signals
- Men's obsession with fancy cars is a form of conspicuous consumption, signaling resources and conscientiousness.
- This is analogous to a peacock's tail, a costly signal demonstrating fitness despite its inherent risks.
