Contagious: Why things catch on

A well-researched book that explains why certain products and ideas become popular
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Found in: Book Reviews / Self-help
Author: Jonah Berger
Book Year: 2013
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, US
ISBN: 9781451686579
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Contagious: Why things catch on

I really enjoyed this book. It’s a well-researched and intelligent book that explains why some messages or products take off exponentially and go viral in a second, while others fizzle out, never to be mentioned again.

The author takes us through a journey of the six key principles which drive things to catch on. These are Social Currency (we share things that make us look good), Triggers (top of mind, tip of tongue), Emotion (when we care we share), Public (built to show, built to grow), Practical Value (news you can use) and Stories (information travels under the guise of idle chatter).

He uses really interesting examples to guide the reader through each of these steps, such as the telephone booth that was in fact a door to a secret restaurant and why a NASA mission boosted sales of chocolate bars, so it's a really interesting and fun read.

If you have a message to spread, you need to read this book ASAP!

Reviewed by Cory Stewart, Health Promotion Consultant

 

 

Contagious: Why things catch on

Disclaimer: Please note these reviews are not intended as endorsements or recommendations from the Mental Health Foundation. This feature introduces resources that may be useful for individuals with an interest in mental health and wellbeing topics.