Predicting things has always been in human nature. From predicting your week, month and year using horoscope, or the winner of a reality TV show, or just the ending of the TV show season to placing a bet on the big game that you might be interested in, such as hockey.
Because of that we are no longer just the watchers sitting in front of the TV or computer. We are analysts of the story. The simple act of guessing (or predicting) has become a full blown form of entertainment itself.
It can add more fun to almost any activity. From a simple chat at the office with coworkers about a major sports tournament, such as the Olympics right now to a debate with friends about which character will survive the season finale.
Let’s look at how predictions have changed our relationship with entertainment.
Predicting as a Reward
Another way you can call your prediction coming true is winning. And who doesn’t like winning?
If we want to be scientific about it, then the feeling you get when winning is because of dopamine which, as you probably know, is a chemical that gives us the feeling of satisfaction and pleasure.
This creates a positive feedback that we want to experience it all the time because it makes us feel smart. The feeling of accomplishment is also the main reason why predictions and guessing has become such a big part of our entertainment. It’s the same feeling you get when you solve a difficult puzzle or finally beat a challenging video game level.
How Platforms Use Predictions
Most online platforms use people’s interest in predictions to keep us coming back. But they don’t even have to do it intentionally. It’s just human nature. We are naturally curious, as well as we always like to win.
Look at sports betting. We all know how popular it is. Proof of that is also the fact that when you google just the word prediction in google the first thing you will see is something related to sports betting. Also fantasy leagues have turned sports watching into a game, thus making every match a chance to gain points and compete with friends.
Even online gaming sites use human desire to predict. From guessing the possibilities in card games like baccarat to slots. People are so interested in guessing that a popular search is best online casino slots (people who work with casinos will know this).
Prediction culture has changed the way we experience entertainment, turning us into active participants rather than just viewers. The joy of guessing outcomes, the satisfaction of being right all create a more fun experience. As this trend continues, prediction will remain as a way we connect with the stories, games, and events we love.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
