Taste: why we like what we like
Your likes and dislikes are formed through rational decision-making. But the reality is more complicated than that. Our genes, our culture, and our experiences define why we like what we like. After all- whether it is books, movies, music, food, romantic partners, or fashion-your tastes are a defining part of your identity
The life buffet
Culture has a defining effect on our tastes
- You also need to take into account your expectations and experiences
- The mere exposure effect: the more times you try something, the more you will like it
- This phenomenon has been found in everything from food, to languages, to music, and art
Changing tastes
Our tastes evolve over time with increased knowledge, new experiences, changing expectations, and the way your body ages
- Sometimes, the changes are purely physical
- We tend to lose our sense of smell when we grow older
- Smokers and heavy drinkers will also see their sense of taste change over time
- Often, changes are caused by our expanding experience of the world
Shaping Your Taste
Three ways to actively shape your tastes
- Explore
- Get out of your comfort zone
- Slow down
- Give experiences a chance to show all its facets
- Reflect
- Our taste is shaped by our genes, our culture, and our experiences
- Make time for self-reflection
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