The novelty and innovation effect

Biological attraction to the new and unknown

Human beings possess an innate attraction to novelty, an evolutionarily programmed characteristic.

Historically, the search for new food resources or tools was vital for survival, which has left an imprint on our modern consumer behavior.

The word "New" acts as a magnet for attention; when we see a product labeled as such, our curiosity is automatically triggered.

It is no coincidence that brands constantly highlight "new formulas" or "new collections"; they are appealing to this basic instinct of exploration and discovery that drives us to investigate the unknown in search of potential reward.

Dopamine release and the brain's reward system.

Exposure to novel stimuli activates the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation.

This chemical reaction causes us to feel a surge of excitement and anticipation when trying something different or acquiring the latest model of a device.

This neurological response can be so powerful that it generates a "pro-innovation bias": enthusiasm for novelty can lead us to overvalue the product's improvements and ignore its possible flaws or lack of real usefulness compared to the previous version.

Use of terms such as "New", "Improved" or "Limited Edition".

To trigger this bias, marketing uses a specific lexicon designed to signal freshness and advancement.

Labels such as "New and Improved," "Revolutionary Technology" or "Seasonal Edition" not only inform, but promise a regenerative experience.

By presenting a product as an innovation, the consumer is invited to upgrade and leave the obsolete behind.

In addition, linking novelty to times of reboot, such as the New Year or the start of the school year, taps into the psychological desire to "start from scratch" or reinvent oneself, making the purchase of new products feel like a necessary step toward that personal transformation.

Here you have the development of Topic 8, elaborated following the guidelines for structure, modification of examples and citation of sources.

Summary

Humans possess an innate biological attraction to novelty. The label "New" triggers curiosity automatically, appealing to basic instincts of exploration and resource discovery.

Novel stimuli release dopamine, generating pleasure and motivation in the brain. This chemical reaction triggers excitement, leading to overvaluing product improvements over previous versions.

Marketing uses terms such as "improved" to promise regenerative experiences. Linking novelty with new beginnings taps into the psychological desire for personal reinvention through consumption.