🌟 What Really Makes Someone Cool?

A Global Deep Dive into What ‘Cool’ Means Across Cultures

We all know someone who just seems effortlessly cool. But what does “cool” actually mean? And is it the same everywhere in the world?

A fascinating international study by Pezzuti, Warren, and Chen (2025) looked at nearly 6,000 people across 13 countries — including Australia, the U.S., China, and Nigeria — to unpack how people define and recognise “coolness.” What they found might surprise you.

🔑 The Six Traits That Make Someone Cool — Everywhere

Across cultures, people consistently agreed on six personality traits that make someone cool:

1. Extraversion – They’re outgoing and social.

2. Hedonism – They enjoy life and seek out pleasure.

3. Power – They hold influence and can take charge.

4. Adventurousness – They take risks and are open to new experiences.

5. Openness to Experience – They’re creative and curious.

6. Autonomy – They value their independence and follow their own path.

In simple terms: cool people live boldly, think freely, and don’t follow the crowd just to fit in.

🤔 Cool vs. Good: What’s the Difference?

You might think cool people are also just “good” people, but the study found something interesting. People considered “good” were seen as kind, agreeable, and responsible. But those seen as “cool” were more rebellious, bold, and nonconforming.

That said, cool people were still liked — just in a different way. They might not always follow the rules, but they often lead the way in culture, trends, and social influence.

🌍 A Universal Language of Cool

Even though cultures are different in many ways, there was a surprising amount of agreement about what makes someone cool. Whether you’re in Sweden or South Africa, people tend to admire others who are bold, independent, and open to life.

This shows that coolness isn’t just a trend — it’s a cross-cultural phenomenon grounded in personality and behaviour.

🎬 Where Did Cool Even Come From?

Historically, “cool” emerged from resistance and rebellion — jazz musicians in the 1940s, beatniks in the ’50s, counterculture movements in the ’60s and ’70s. Over time, mainstream culture began to adopt and market these styles. Think of music, fashion, film — all helping shape what we now see as “cool.”

But even though coolness has gone commercial, it still holds that core element of edge — the courage to be different.

💡 Why This Matters

Understanding what makes someone cool has real-life value — from branding and marketing, to social dynamics, to leadership. Being “cool” isn’t about faking it or following trends. It’s about showing up with boldness, curiosity, and a strong sense of self — and those qualities resonate worldwide.

📖 Reference (APA 7)

Pezzuti, T., Warren, C., & Chen, J. (2025). Cool people. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/xge0001799