6. We are influenced by what is around us
Social proof
We copy other people’s behavior, especially people like us
When people are unsure about how they should act or feel, they observe the people around them. This is known as social proof. Research shows that when we observe others, our brains simulate what they are feeling.1
Not all social proof is conscious. As much research shows, we are also subconsciously influenced by the actions of others. We often change our behavior based on what people are doing around us, but don’t realize that we’re being influenced. For example, people sitting next to heavy eaters eat more. People dining alone eat less than people eating in groups. People eating with one other person eat 35 percent more than what ...
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