Priming and Subliminal Influences

The New York Times has an interesting article this week about how priming can alter judgements and decision-making.

"New studies have found that people tidy up more thoroughly when there’s a faint tang of cleaning liquid in the air; they become more competitive if there’s a briefcase in sight, or more cooperative if they glimpse words like “dependable” and “support” — all without being aware of the change, or what prompted it.

Psychologists say that “priming” people in this way is not some form of hypnotism, or even subliminal seduction; rather, it’s a demonstration of how everyday sights, smells and sounds can selectively activate goals or motives that people already have."

Read the Article:

• "The Subconscious Brain: Who's Minding he Mind?" - From the New York Times