We have launched Beyond Nudge Labs!!
Beyond Nudge Labs provide an excellent infrastructure for researchers from across the globe to conduct surveys and experimental research with our Indian participants. We take pride in ensuring global ethical standards and fair compensation for the participants. Do you wish to take part in our studies and get paid for your time?
Want to conduct an experiment or survey? Write to us at info@iben.co.in
In our last post, we cited the article “India’s Digital Samaritans: Can Social Media Be a Force for Good?” where the authors - Sakshi Ghai and Amy Orben explained the role of social media as a lifeline to the Indians during one of the worst health crises India has faced to date. This was a case where we witnessed good use of modern technology. But it is not uncommon for us to find reports indicating the ill effects of technology. In “The latest in Digital Detox Research”, the author states the links between higher screen time and various health factors like mental wellbeing, obesity and sleep. With the onset of the pandemic, our digital habits have changed dramatically and in conclusion, the author argues the need for a digital detox. “Screen Time Statistics 2021: Your Smartphone Is Hurting You” gives detailed insights into our screen habits.
So, it is pretty apparent that technology in itself is neither good nor bad. It is a tool that can either be used or misused. But the question that we would like to answer is - Can Behavioural Science drive modern technology to better results? Like technology, implementation of the methods and techniques of behavioural science can be well-intentioned or otherwise. For instance - in “How DuoLingo Nudges Users” Stuart Mills explains several nudges ranging from the colour scheme being green to the ‘Streak’ system to love bombing, and various behavioural science concepts that the app uses to make its users feel a sense of progression. The author concludes that “DuoLingo is a masterclass in choice architecture and behavioural design“ and we could not argue otherwise. Headspace, a wellness app is another example that draws insights from human psychology to enhance its effectiveness in the habit formation of its users via features like ‘My Stats‘, ‘Surprise Rewards‘, ‘The Buddy Board‘ and much more. On the other hand, we have multiple apps installed on our phones that are highly addictive and unproductive, which aim to profit from mindless scrolling.
Amazon: A behavioural economic analysis - In this episode of The Brainy Business Podcast, Melina Plamer analyzes how Amazon implements behavioural science into their work. This behavioural economic analysis lists Amazon’s tactics that they use to influence their customers. Considering how big Amazon is, this episode is very informative about the applications of behavioural science to business (Listen here).
This month we have the United Nations Behavioural Science Report, 2021 in the spotlight! This report contains information on the role of Behavioural Science in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, application of Behavioural Science in the UN - trends and capabilities, and opportunities for systematic Behavioural Science application at the UN. The report ends with some “Key Takeaways” and a description of the application of Behavioural Science in 25 UN Entities.
It’s okay to worry, just have a little faith!
In this thought-provoking article, the author Muhammad Zainuddin from LSE explores the intriguing relationship between religion, tolerance of uncertainty and levels of well-being. Using the example of Pakistan and Sweden which are extremely culturally, psychologically, economically and religiously different, the author explains why these two countries have very similar and high life satisfaction scores.
Intertwined: Our perception of ourselves and others
In this article, Dr Marco Wittman explains the concept of self-other-mergence and how the prefrontal cortex is important for it. They investigate whether our default predisposition is to have an integrated sense of self and others or to see ourselves and others as separate individuals. The study concludes that our estimates of the abilities of ourselves and others are inherently interdependent and activity in the prefrontal cortex helps to ensure a correctly calibrated sense of self.
This is Personal: The Do’s and Don’ts of Personalization in Tech
In this article from The Decision Lab, Preeti Kotamarthi explains the concept of personalization, why does it work and what are its limitations. With comprehensible examples and concept illustrations, the author explains the role of psychology in personalized technology. She states that “making personalization work the right way is beneficial for both users and companies”.
Adam Grant Thinks Again - Why don’t we rethink? Is there a reason why changing minds is difficult? Can imposter syndrome be good for us? In this episode of A Slight change of plans featuring Adam Grant, he talks about the science of changing peoples’ minds, including our own. (Listen here)
Why TikTok is like crack cocaine ?- Why do I spend hours on TikTok scrolling mindlessly? In this episode of Behaviour change marketing Bootcamp featuring Peter Judodihardjo aka PeteBITs, he explains the features of TikTok like its reward mechanism, having no decision point and the power of habit formation, which make it highly addictive. He also discusses how digital wellbeing is an important issue, and nudges can break the pattern. (Listen here)
Behavioural Marketing - How is behavioural science applied to marketing? Which tools of behavioural science can be effective tools of marketing? How can marketers use the secret art of creating resonance and emotion to influence millions every day? This episode of the Questioning Behaviour podcast featuring Steve Brunt answers the aforementioned questions and much more. (Listen here)
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Editors: Divya Purohit, Simran Odrani, Junofy Anto Rozarina