Context first –
paedomorphism /-ˌfiz-əm/
: retention in an adult infantile or juvenile characteristics.
Ok, I admit it. Red pandas are pretty cute.
Ever wonder why most of us think so? (Fact, given it’s #8 on the top 500 cutest animals list. :p )
There’s an evolutionary reason for that.
Did you realize that universally, males find females who have more child-like features generally more attractive too?
That’s a fact too. And it doesn’t make you a pedophiliac either. Child-like features (big eyes, broadened, flattened faces, proportionally shorter limbs) is a signal for youthfulness (and presumed higher fertility). And from a mating perspective you will be more attracted to any kind of signal of good mating potential. This appeal translates beyond other humans and onto products and objects.
So we are predisposed to liking cute things. Angry Birds, most basically all Japanese characters, certain Olympic mascots, to name a few.
Nature made us this way. So milk it for what it’s worth. Inject some cuteness into your product. Cuteness sells.
Right, of course unless you’re a serious scientific brand. Then don’t do that.
