Reducing Risk through Pleasure
Dr. Who saves lives by airing episodes on Christmas
What is this about?
Dr Who is a British TV programme with the Guinness World Record for longest running sci-fi show. Since 1963, they have shown 31 Christmas specials. A doctor at the University of Birmingham has conducted a study proving that these Christmas episodes are a public health intervention, dropping the number of deaths when the show airs.
Why is it interesting?
The Dr. Who episodes brought down death rates by giving people something to gather round in a safe environment, prevent them to taking up more risky pursuits. Our Future Code Wellthy Living highlights Sustainable Wellbeing where brands design every product to enhance piece of mind.
So What?
The results of this study show us that brands can create risk aversion through pleasure. If something as innocent as a Christmas special can reduce deaths, what else can brands do to deliver big impact with small effort?
Just Imagine ...
A near future:
Where Netflix drops a self-help cooking series. Ingredients and mood boosting actives, are posted online before the show airs. Post show cooks are encouraged online to share experiences and support each other creating community.
A mid future:
Where Smirnoff introduces 'Hackney Disparages' a women's only free taxi service to ensure safe travel home during a night out.
A far future:
Where Social Media companies develop incredibly sophisticated language and image trackers, meaning users can convert their social media to a truly safe space for users.
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