Diversity and Happiness, Research Paper Example

Malcolm Gladwell uses the work of Howard Moskowitz, a market researcher and psychophysicist, to illustrate the importance of diversity. Gladwell states how companies such as Campbell’s and Prego succeeded because they listened to the advice of Moskowitz and catered to consumers’ individuality as opposed to trying to market one generic product. Consumers are happiest when their uniqueness is appreciated; the same principle applies to people. Individuals are happiest when accepting their diversity.

Gladwell begins in a light-heartedmanner discussing the research of Moskowitz. He highlights Moskowitz’s work with Pepsi, Prego, and Campbell’s Soup. Moskowitz found that consumers did not want the perfect product, they wanted the perfect products. People have distinct preferences and trying to find one product to please all is useless. Gladwell engages the audience by discussing the importance of providing people with choices and because everyone wants something different. Though he is jovial, his body language reveals that his anecdote may have a deeper meaning. His shoulders are slightly forward, his brow furrowed, and he is very expressive with his hands. Moskowitz is interesting; yet it seems unusual for his story to inspire such intensity.

Gladwell’s manner almost softens at the end and his smile becomes more excited as he makes his point. The parallel between marketing and humanity becomes clear. Instead of trying to conform, individuals will be happiest by embracing their differences.