Harnessing the power of social norms and identity can effectively promote positive behavior. People are influenced to reuse towels and conserve electricity when they believe it's what others are doing. Displaying a sign stating that most guests reuse their towels led to significant compliance. Similarly, comparing individual electricity usage to that of neighbors prompted people to reduce their consumption. A litter reduction campaign in Texas targeted a specific demographic with the slogan 'don't mess with Texas', resulting in a 72% reduction in litter. These examples illustrate how leveraging social identity and conformity can drive positive change for the environment and society.
Humans are great at reacting to mortal danger... but only sometimes. Unfortunately, some risks to our safety and wellbeing don't set off alarm bells in our brains. Climate change falls into that category. Why is that?
Harvard psychologist Dan Gilbert explains how some dangers trigger us, and some don't. In discussion with Dr Laurie Santos, he also outlines ways in which we can be made to care more about threats to the planet and maybe react to them in more positive, happiness-inducing ways.
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