What It Really Takes to Be Cool: A Man’s Guide

The Universal Appeal of Cool

Coolness isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a global phenomenon. Whether you’re channeling James Dean or tipping your hat to Arthur Fonzarelli, the essence of cool transcends borders and cultures. A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology reveals that cool is more universal than we might think. Researchers found that even in countries with non-Latin alphabets, like South Korea and Turkey, the term ‘cool’ is used and pronounced similarly to English. This suggests a shared understanding of what it means to be cool, regardless of where you are.

Co-lead researcher Todd Pezzuti, PhD, highlights the societal need for cool individuals who challenge norms and inspire change. The study involved 6,000 participants worldwide, who were asked to identify and rate cool and uncool people. The findings show that while cool people are generally likable, they possess traits that aren’t necessarily ‘good’ in the moral sense. This explains why antiheroes in media often capture our admiration—they embody the rebellious spirit that’s inherently cool.

Cool vs. Good: The Fine Line

Being cool doesn’t always equate to being good, and that’s perfectly fine. According to Caleb Warren, PhD, another lead researcher, cool individuals are likable or admirable, but they often exhibit traits that aren’t morally ‘good.’ This distinction is crucial because it allows for the existence of antiheroes who, despite their flaws, remain captivating. The study warns of the potential homogenization of coolness as global media and fashion dominate cultural narratives. Yet, coolness hasn’t lost its edge; it’s simply evolved to be more functional.

The concept of coolness has roots in rebellious subcultures, such as Black jazz musicians in the 1940s and beatniks in the 1950s. As society accelerates and values creativity, cool individuals become increasingly essential. The perception of coolness is now stable across countries, indicating a crystallized set of values and traits globally. However, the essence of cool remains a blend of likability and a dash of rebellion, making it a unique and enduring quality.

Traits That Define Coolness

So, what exactly makes someone cool? The study identifies six key traits: extraversion, power, hedonism, adventure, openness, and autonomy. Cool people are often more extraverted than their uncool counterparts, displaying a sense of power and a zest for life. They’re adventurous, open to new experiences, and maintain a level of autonomy that sets them apart. However, there’s a balance to be struck. Too much autonomy or hedonism can tip the scales from cool to irresponsible.

Take musicians, for example. A rock band is seen as cool when it balances autonomy—writing songs true to their style without completely disregarding audience perception. Similarly, a hedonistic lifestyle that’s too extreme can come off as reckless rather than cool. The key is moderation. Coolness thrives on the edge but knows when to pull back just enough to maintain its allure.

The Timeless Edge of Cool

The study also notes that good people share many traits with cool individuals, but with a twist. Traits like calmness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness rank higher for ‘good’ people. While being capable is both cool and good, it’s not distinctly one or the other. This distinction underscores the unique position cool people hold in society—they’re admired for their edge and individuality, even if they’re not the poster children for moral virtue.

Being cool is about more than just fitting in; it’s about standing out with confidence and style. It’s a timeless quality that continues to evolve, reflecting societal shifts while maintaining its rebellious roots. So, gentlemen, embrace your inner cool by striking the right balance between likability and autonomy. After all, in a world that’s constantly changing, the essence of cool remains a steady beacon of individuality and charisma.

Key Facts Worth Knowing

• •💡 Coolness is universally recognized, even in non-Latin alphabet countries.
• •💡 The study involved 6,000 participants worldwide from 2018 to 2022.
• •💡 Cool people are likable but not necessarily ‘good’ in a moral sense.
• •💡 Coolness has roots in rebellious subcultures like jazz musicians and beatniks.
• •💡 Key traits of coolness include extraversion, power, and autonomy.