In light of the Atlanta, Ga. school shooting Thursday afternoon, here's one spot of bright news: researchers may have found a link between videogames and altruism.
In the online journal PLOS Online, they describe how just participating in an "uplifting" game can have a knock-on effect that manifests itself in positive ways. Up until now, most studies have proven the opposite, prompting President Obama to ask the Centers for Disease Control to investigate the link between gun violence and media.
Pacific Standard Magazine describes the 'Superman' experiment comprised of 30 men and 30 women:
None
None
Interestingly, those who flew solo were quicker to help than the chopper passengers. They also picked up more pens.
As the researchers point out, just pretending to be like Superman—with all the superhero stereotypes intact—might inspire gamers to help in the real world.
[via Pacific Standard Magazine]
LIKE COMPLEX TECH ON FACEBOOK
