Social Butterflies Reclaiming the Positive Power of Social Networks

The rise of social media has sent our social instincts into overdrive, and the impact of our networks has never been greater. But what if we could reclaim the positive power that influences our decisions, to behave better and be happier? In this groundbreaking book, Sanders and Hume build on the incredible findings of their own cutting-edge research from their work at the world’s first Nudge Unit, as well as illuminating case studies from experts around the world, to show how small changes in our environments can have a huge impact on where our instincts lead us. At a time when our trust in each other is being destroyed on a global scale, it’s never been more important to understand what motivates us and how to use our predictable behaviours to drive positive change. From helping us to run more cohesive organizations, to building important relationships and connections that matter, this is an essential roadmap back to our better social selves.

Michael Sanders was Chief Scientist and Research Director at the Behavioural Insights Team for seven years, recently joining the What Works Centre for Children’s Social Care as Executive Director. He is a Reader in Public Policy at King’s College London and an Associate Fellow of the Blavatnik School of Government, and is also an affiliate of the Harvard Behavioural Insights Group. Susannah Hume is an Associate Director at King’s College London, and former Principal Research Advisor at the Behavioural Insights Team.

Contents

Introduction 1

Part 1: The State of Social Influence
1 Them 15
2 Us 30
3 Manipulation 43

Part 2: Nudges
4 Social Groups 67
5 Social Distance 85
6 Social Norms 103
7 Social Cues 123
8 Social Diffusion 146

Part 3: Networks
9 Social Capital 171
10 Social Support 185
11 Social Bridging 199
12 Role Models 213
13 Belonging and Trusting 231

Conclusion 244

Notes 250
Acknowledgements 269
Picture Credits 273
Index 275