The unspoken rules that govern our behaviourThe unspoken rules that govern our behaviour
All In The Mind
Whether it's shaking hands or which side of the road to drive on, social norms dominate the way we behave. But when norms change suddenly, you get chaos. Just ask Sweden. If you'd like to hear more from today's expert, Matt featured in an episode in 2021 called Neuromarketing — how brands target your brain. Check it out!
29:09•6 Apr 2024
The Unseen Forces Shaping Our Behaviour
Episode Overview
- Sweden's switch from left to right driving in 1967 was a logistical nightmare.
- Social norms shape our behaviour more than we realise.
- Sudden changes in norms can lead to chaos and confusion.
- Effective communication is crucial for societal changes.
- Our brains struggle to adapt quickly to new social norms.
“So it all boils down to when social norms change suddenly, we get confused because we can no longer predict other people's behaviour”
Ever wondered why you instinctively shake hands or drive on a particular side of the road? This episode of 'All In The Mind' explores the unspoken rules that shape our behaviour and what happens when these norms suddenly change. Host Sana Khadar chats with Dr. Matt Johnson, a neuroscientist and cognitive psychologist, about Sweden's dramatic switch in 1967 from driving on the left side of the road to the right. Imagine the chaos!
Matt explains how social norms work, why our brains struggle to adapt quickly, and what happens when collective awareness isn't in sync. They also draw parallels to the confusion during the pandemic when no one knew how to greet each other anymore. From catchy Swedish songs to massive communication efforts, you'll get a fascinating look at how a country navigated this historic shift. This episode dives into the psychology behind social norms and offers an engaging perspective on human behaviour.
Don't miss out on this intriguing discussion that blends humour, history, and neuroscience!
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