Week 8 – Reflection

The human tendency to prioritize appearance when evaluating various aspects of life is undeniable. Whether it’s people, cars, clothing, destinations, smartphones, or even cuisine, visual appeal plays a prominent role in our judgments. Strikingly, aesthetics have overshadowed the intrinsic value of things in some cases, particularly in the world of business. For instance, a product, identical in functionality, can attract a different customer base based solely on how it is presented – be it in a practical or luxurious manner. This phenomenon has extended the age-old adage, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” beyond books themselves. It now applies to both human beings and machines. Regardless of our reluctance to admit it, appearances wield immense influence, often shaping the initial and most crucial impression we form. This truth underscores the significance of visual aesthetics in our lives, as they continue to guide our choices and perceptions. The article “ Emotion & Design: Attractive Things Work Better” by Donald Arthur the American professor discuss this phenomenon and took the argument to a new level of analyzing why this is the case. He provides examples that highlight how our emotions influence decision-making, such as the contrast between happy and tense individuals when completing tasks. This analysis not only reveals the impact of emotions on decision-making but also emphasizes the importance of aesthetics and emotional appeal in the functionality of objects and systems.

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