This article was originally written by Stephen Beech for SWNS — the U.K.’s largest independent news agency, providing globally relevant original, verified, and engaging content to the world’s leading media outlets.
The coolest person you know would probably be just as popular in Japan as they would be in Nicaragua or Austria. That’s because while hip folks may seem to have a certain “je ne sais quoi,” there are some specific attributes associated with being cool — and they’re surprisingly similar across different cultures around the world, recent research suggests.
Publishing their findings in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, scientists conducted experiments involving nearly 6,000 participants from 12 countries and found that “cool” people were universally perceived to be more extroverted, hedonistic, powerful, adventurous, open, and autonomous.
“Everyone wants to be cool, or at least avoid the stigma of being uncool, and society needs cool people because they challenge norms, inspire change, and advance culture,” study co-author Todd Pezzuti, a professor of marketing at Chile’s Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, said in a news release.
The study was conducted over a four-year span in the United States, Australia, Chile, China, Germany, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, and Turkey. Participants were asked to think of people they thought were cool, not cool, good, or not good. They then rated each person’s personality and values, and the researchers used the data to investigate the differences between cool people and uncool people, and between cool people and good people.
They determined that those who were deemed good people were generally perceived as more conforming, traditional, secure, warm, agreeable, universalistic, conscientious, and calm.
And while cool people and good people are different, they do have some traits in common, per co-author Caleb Warren, a marketing professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson.
“To be seen as cool, someone usually needs to be somewhat likable or admirable, which makes them similar to good people,” he explained. “However, cool people often have other traits that aren’t necessarily considered ‘good’ in a moral sense, like being hedonistic and powerful.”
The authors also pointed out that being “cool” was once more associated with counterculture, but as the reach of fashion, music, and movies — as well as advertising in other industries (for example, tech and food/beverages) — has extended, the concept has become more commercial.
That said, cool is still cool, according to the authors. “Coolness has definitely evolved over time, but I don’t think it has lost its edge,” said Pezzuti. “It’s just become more functional.”
In the study, the researchers concluded that “the fact that cool people are seen as having a similar attribute profile around the world, and that these attributes are distinctly cool rather than good in general, makes a strong case that coolness is a meaningful construct that can help explain how people understand, order, and structure their social world.” And that construct may only become more important over time.
Stories like this remind us of the power of human ingenuity and compassion. In a world where headlines are often dominated by negativity, it is refreshing to see developments that inspire hope and positive change. The story behind what makes someone cool? the qualities are the same everywhere, global study finds is one that resonates with people across different backgrounds and cultures, highlighting the universal desire for progress and connection.
Scientific discovery has always been driven by curiosity and the desire to understand the world around us. Modern research tools and international collaboration have accelerated the pace of discoveries, leading to breakthroughs that would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space, scientists are uncovering secrets that reshape our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
The importance of funding scientific research cannot be overstated. Government grants, private foundations, and university programs all contribute to creating an ecosystem where innovative ideas can be tested and validated. Public engagement with science through museums, documentaries, and educational outreach programs helps build a society that values evidence-based thinking and supports the continued pursuit of knowledge for the benefit of future generations.
Art and creative expression have always played a fundamental role in how we process emotions, communicate ideas, and build connections across cultures. Whether through visual arts, music, literature, or performance, creative works have the power to inspire, challenge, and heal. In an increasingly digital world, artists are finding new ways to reach audiences and create experiences that bridge traditional and contemporary forms of expression.
Supporting the arts through public funding, community spaces, and educational programs is essential for maintaining a vibrant cultural landscape. Studies have consistently shown that engagement with the arts improves mental health, enhances cognitive abilities, and strengthens community bonds. By valuing and investing in creative endeavors, societies foster innovation, empathy, and a sense of shared identity that enriches the lives of all their members.
The power of community action is evident in countless stories of individuals coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether through organized volunteer programs or spontaneous acts of kindness, these efforts demonstrate the profound impact that compassion and generosity can have on both individuals and entire neighborhoods. Research has consistently shown that communities with strong social connections experience better health outcomes, lower crime rates, and greater overall life satisfaction.
Building stronger communities requires intentional effort and ongoing commitment from people of all ages and backgrounds. Mentorship programs, neighborhood gatherings, and collaborative projects create opportunities for meaningful connection and mutual support. In an era where digital communication often replaces face-to-face interaction, the importance of fostering genuine human connections through community engagement has never been more apparent or more necessary.
Looking ahead, developments like the one described in this story offer a glimpse into a future filled with possibility and positive change. While challenges certainly remain, the creativity, determination, and compassion demonstrated by the individuals and organizations involved serve as a powerful reminder that progress is always within reach when people are willing to work together toward a common goal.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, stories like these provide both inspiration and practical examples of how innovation, kindness, and perseverance can make a real difference. By sharing and celebrating these achievements, we not only honor the efforts of those involved but also encourage others to pursue their own ideas for creating positive change in their communities and beyond.
Pezzuti added: “As society moves faster and puts more value on creativity and change, cool people are more essential than ever.”
