Make it fun! Change the world

The people over at Volkswagen are known for automobiles, but they also have a little side project going on to change the world. They are the creator and sponsor of a project and website called The Fun Theory. According to their site, they are "dedicated to the thought that something as simple as fun is the easiest way to change people’s behaviour for the better. Be it for yourself, for the environment, or for something entirely different, the only thing that matters is that it’s change for the better."

The premise is that people are more likely to do something -- cleanup up dirty streets, exercise, talk to each other, recycle, be polite -- if it's fun for them. Humans are complex creatures. We are driven by a number of multi-dimensional needs including the need to fit in, the need to acquire stuff, the need to be loved, the need to feel safe, the need to feel in control. Even the most altruistic among us is still in it for themselves (even if it's just to leave the world a better place than it was when they got here). Engage all of that selfishness and still make something that's fun... that's ambitious. Get people to do something good for their neighbor, the neighborhood, the area, the world at the same time? That takes true talent. Glückwünsche Volkswagen! Glückwünsche.

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