Noted: A preoccupation with Nike, Coke, or Gucci may not just mean you’re materialistic – it could also mean the Grim Reaper’s been preying on your mind.
In one study, researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Virginia surveyed subjects on their levels of brand connection and death anxiety. In a second study, some of the subjects were told to consider their death in detail, heightening their death anxiety. In both studies, subjects were asked to rate their level of connection to such products as microwaves, jeans, MP3 players and sunglasses.