Americans are portrayed as the world’s ultimate consumers, with the oversized homes, walk-in closets, overflowing storage units—and monstrous credit card bills—to prove it. We must really love shopping, right? Then why is it …
Psychology of Money
“Thrift stores would be out of business if it wasn't for hoarders.”
The Porsche as Smart Investment for Single Guy on the Make
A new study indicates that driving a Porsche or engaging in otherwise flashy spending can serve a dual purpose. First, it successfully attracts women. Second, it gives off the distinct impression to women that the owners of such …
Money Can’t Buy Happiness — Or Can It?
Many people get sucked into the belief that having more money is the key to a better life. But it’s not.
Is the ATM Cash-Dispensing Sound Fake?
In true Pavlovian form, humans are accustomed to getting excited at the sweet sound of an ATM dispensing cash. But is that sound artificially generated? If so, why?
Profitable Nonviolence
How the surprising effects of violent movies can help us to make smarter money decisions.
Tips on Controlling Your Impulse Buys
A lot of people believe they're immune to advertising and marketing. A lot of people are wrong.
When Metaphors Attack!
We're wired to understand complex concepts by grounding them in simpler ones. It's often an effective way to get by in a complex world–but can lead us astray when it comes to our finances.
“Money leads to autonomy but it does not add to well-being or happiness.”
The Perils of Mobile Payments
It’s been hard not to miss the steady stream of news suggesting that some time soon the U.S. will catch up with the rest of the world when it comes to using mobile phones and other devices as digital wallets. If you don’t …
The Evolution of Keeping Up With the Joneses, as Seen in 17th Century German Villages
When was consumerism, in the modern sense, born? Researchers say it was at least a century before the Industrial Revolution brought cheap, mass-produced goods to the world. Hoarding, and the popularity of storage units, came a bit later.
