Are Labubus Popular Because They Are "So Bad They're Good?"

EPISODE OVERVIEW Why do we sometimes love things we know are “bad”? In this episode of The Ripple Effect, Wharton Executive Education Vice Dean and Marketing Professor Patti Williams unpacks the psychology behind the consumption of something that is “so bad it’s good." From cult films like The Room to fads like the pet rock or today’s Pop Mart Labubu collectibles, Patti Williams explains why people often prefer the extremes—great or terrible—over the forgettable middle. She shares how hedonic motives, curiosity, and even storytelling value make bad jokes, awful auditions, and offbeat products more entertaining than their mediocre counterparts. This conversation also explores how companies tap into that sweet spot of irony and sincerity, fueling virality and cultural moments that stick.

PODCAST OVERVIEW Every day, business scholars answer pressing questions in their research - but what do their insights mean for you? In this podcast, Wharton faculty dive into what inspired their studies and how their findings resonate with the world today. Learn how research insights translate into knowledge you can use, with host Dan Loney.

#ConsumerBehavior #MarketingInsights #SoBadItsGood #ConsumerPsychology #ViralProducts #MarketingPsychology ----- The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania is committed to sharing its intellectual capital through Knowledge at Wharton, the school’s online business analysis journal.

Launched in 1999, Knowledge at Wharton offers free access to:

- Articles, podcasts, and videos highlighting Wharton faculty research and analysis of current business trends - Interviews with book authors from Wharton School Press - In-depth series of curated content like Wharton Executive Education’s Nano Tools for Leaders - A searchable database of more than 10,000 articles covering all aspects of business - A weekly newsletter that delivers Knowledge at Wharton insights directly to your inbox

Visit the Knowledge at Wharton homepage: https://whr.tn/3qUpSBE Subscribe to the Knowledge at Wharton YouTube channel: https://whr.tn/3DEAgAU