Joe and Adam Alter, Professor of Marketing at NYU discuss Alter’s new book, Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked. Joe and Adam share their thoughts on society’s addiction to gaming, social media and technology and its impact on the future of the human race.
Show Notes: Flappy Birds, Gamers, and Screen Addicts
Flappy Bird - Inventor removed it from the market due to how addictive the game became. iPhones with Flappy Bird installed have sold for thousands of dollars. Ebay cancels auction for $99k iPhone with Flappy Bird Installed.
Stopping cues and starting cues - one of the most addictive features of social media and entertainment apps
World of Warcraft - Stories of people wearing diapers while playing. Story from WOW addict.
Shift in demographics of gamers - before it was young males, now biggest demographic is middle aged women
Increased screen time during COVID. Average adult screen time
Protected classes - Reduced screen time legislation for children
Sri Chinmoy Marathon - Brooklyn block 3100 miles over 60 days
Interview with Shigeru Miyamoto On The Origins Of Nintendo's Famous Characters
More from Adam Alter:
Products Mentioned:
Quake - The game Joe was previously addicted to
Sandbox - Arcade-style VR gaming
Myzone chest strap heart rate monitor