#Newresearch

Scientists have unlocked a universal code to what it means to be “cool”—and it turns out, these qualities transcend cultural boundaries. According to groundbreaking research published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, people around the world, from the United States to China, Nigeria to Germany, consistently identify a set of six core personality traits that define the elusive concept of “coolness.” The findings are reshaping our understanding of how global media, social trends, and cultural exchange converge to create modern social archetypes, with important implications for Thailand’s own youth, education, and cultural landscape.

A global study identifies six core traits that define “cool,” cutting across cultures and countries, including Thailand. Researchers say extroversion, hedonism, power, adventurousness, openness to experience, and autonomy shape how young people experience media, trends, and social life in Thai schools and communities. The findings offer fresh insight into how global exchange influences Thai youth, education, and culture.

The appeal of being cool has long influenced friendships, fashion, and status. A cross-country team surveyed nearly 6,000 adults in 13 nations, asking them to rate others as “cool,” “uncool,” “good,” or “not good.” Across Bangkok, Berlin, and Lagos, a similar profile emerged: energetic social presence, pleasure-seeking, influence, risk-taking, openness, and independence.