How the LIKE Button Changed the World & Weird Things Your Body Does
May 5, 2025
auto_awesome
Cutter Wood, author of 'Earthly Materials', shares insights on the astonishing functions of our bodies, like the surprising importance of tears and mucus. Martin Reeves, chairman of the BCG Henderson Institute, dives into the history and profound cultural impact of the 'like' button, exploring its psychological effects on self-esteem and engagement in social media. They discuss everything from the allure of a long-lasting Twinkie to how these daily interactions shape our lives, making for a fascinating blend of food facts and digital sociology.
The like button is pressed over seven billion times daily, serving as a critical tool for social validation and user engagement.
Fascinating food facts reveal that Twinkies have a shelf life of only 45 days, and most salmon is dyed pink for aesthetics.
Human bodily functions such as breathing and mucus production play vital roles in emotional regulation and maintaining microbiome health.
Deep dives
The Appeal of High-Quality Fashion Items on eBay
High standards in fashion can lead enthusiasts to explore platforms like eBay for authenticated, luxury items. From vintage pearl necklaces to iconic designer bags, consumers can find both new and pre-loved pieces that meet their discerning tastes. eBay's vast array of fashion selections, including rare watches and elegant accessories, fulfills the desire for quality and prestige without breaking the bank. This accessibility makes eBay a prime destination for those seeking to elevate their wardrobes with unique finds.
Intriguing Food Facts
There are many fascinating and sometimes surprising facts about common foods that can enhance our understanding of what we eat. For example, Twinkies, despite their popular reputation for longevity, have a shelf life of only about 45 days. Additionally, most salmon consumed is farmed and treated with dyes to achieve a pink color, as opposed to wild salmon that get their hue from a natural diet rich in krill. Other items, such as honeys and certain fruits like bananas and watermelons, can technically be classified as berries, showcasing the hidden complexities of food classifications.
The Psychological Impact of the Like Button
The like button has become a ubiquitous part of social media, pressed over seven billion times a day, and serves as a powerful psychological tool. Clicking the like button triggers a dopamine release in the brain similar to the feeling of being liked, reinforcing its usage as a form of social validation. Its origins stem from attempts to streamline feedback in social platforms, ultimately shaping how businesses leverage user engagement for advertising. This transformation illustrates how a simple feature can create significant impacts on both social behavior and marketing strategies.
The Complexity of Human Bodily Functions
Human physiology encompasses remarkable functions that often go unrecognized, such as breathing, mucus production, and the significance of tears. Breathing is not only vital for survival but also plays a crucial role in regulating brain activity, allowing individuals to exert some control over their mental state through techniques like slow, deep breaths. Mucus, an abundant yet often overlooked substance, serves essential functions, including protecting the microbiome by providing a nurturing environment. The importance of tears, which can signal emotional responses and regulate feelings, highlights how bodily functions contribute to the intricate tapestry of human experience.
Making Decisions on Shoe Repairs
Choosing between repairing or replacing shoes can often hinge on the condition of the footwear, specifically distinguishing between the upper and lower parts. If the upper, which includes the fabric and structure of the shoe, is damaged, it may not be worth the cost of repair. Conversely, if the sole is the primary issue, repairing it can extend the life of the shoes significantly and provide a sense of having a 'new' pair. Finding a quality repair service is crucial to ensure that the investment in repair yields long-lasting results.
Why is salmon pink? What is the shelf life of a Twinkie? What do almonds and peaches have in common? These are just a few of the fun food facts we cover to kick off this episode. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/food-facts_n_4788746
How many times would you guess the “Like” button is pressed by people every day around the world? You are about to find out and it is a lot! Where did the like button come from? Why is it so important? What does it do for the person who does the liking and for the person (or business) who gets your “like”? Listen to my guest Martin Reeves, who has explored the history of the like button and why it has become such a big part of our lives. Martin is chairman of the BCG Henderson Institute, a think tank for developing new business ideas and he is co-author of the book Like: The Button That Changed the World (https://amzn.to/4cTgCUn).
You have likely had the dilemma of owning a favorite pair of shoes that need to be repaired and the question is – do you fix them or just get a new pair? Listen as I reveal what the experts say that determines the answer to that question. https://www.businessinsider.com/should-i-repair-or-replace-my-shoes-2015-4
QUINCE: Elevate your shopping with Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/syskfor free shipping on your order and 365 day returns!
SHOPIFY: Nobody does selling better than Shopify! Sign up for a $1 per-month trial period at https://Shopify.com/sysk and upgrade your selling today!
