NEWS
Study finds that medical crowdfunding shifts conservative social attitudes in US
Medical crowdfunding campaigns have the power to change social attitudes , but only for conservatives , according to new research from the University of Sussex Business School .
Researchers , Dr Krystallia Moysidou and Dr Smadar Cohen- Chen , have been investigating how crowdfunding platforms can shape public views and potentially alter political attitudes and perceptions of individual social responsibility .
Americans are increasingly turning to crowdfunding platforms to bankroll their health-related costs . However , although medical crowdfunding has rapidly become institutionalised as part of the US healthcare financing landscape , empirical evidence on how Americans perceive its role in healthcare and the impact it might have on public attitudes is scarce . The researchers , analysed data from one correlational and one experimental study , discovering that political orientation is associated with Americans ’ views on medical crowdfunding .
Dr Moysidou said : “ Specifically , we find that those who selfidentified as conservative perceived medical crowdfunding as a valid part of the system , and more positively than a universal healthcare system . In contrast , medical crowdfunding is perceived less positively , as hindering a system of universal and affordable healthcare by those more liberally-oriented .”
Dr Cohen-Chen added : “ Considering that conservativelyoriented individuals are the ones who have traditionally been opposed to a healthcare reform in the US , our results make a valuable contribution towards facilitating an open dialogue on reforming healthcare in the US ”.
Their results are the first to empirically prove that these campaigns have the power to induce social attitudes that are conducive to change .
Smart Tech fatigue putting consumers off buying , research finds
Millions of consumers are being put off purchasing Smart
Technology for their homes due to feeling overwhelmed with the products currently available on the market , new research has found .
Despite two-thirds of UK homeowners already owning at least one piece of Smart Tech , many are hesitant about purchasing more due to being worried about cost ( 43 %), the wealth of devices on offer ( 39 %), their ability to correctly install the products themselves ( 39 %) and potential security risks ( 37 %).
Detailed in the Homes Unhooked PR and Marketing Report , released by Unhooked Communications , the research also shows that despite concerns , more than half of people hope to buy new Smart Technology for their home in the next 12 months . Drivers for purchasing include increased convenience ( 16 %), enhanced security ( 15 %), to improve energy efficiency ( 15 %) and to create a customised home ( 8 %).
Topping the list of planned purchases are Smart Doorbells ( 23 %), Smart Lightbulbs ( 18 %), external cameras ( 17 %), Smart Plugs ( 14 %) and alarm systems and locks ( 13 %).
Claire Gamble , MD of Unhooked Communications , said : “ With technology advancing at such a rapid pace , it ’ s an exciting time for businesses manufacturing , supplying and selling Smart Home products and services . Although many people are embracing tech for the home , some are too overwhelmed by the choice and worried about issues such as integrating and using the devices , security and cost . Understanding these concerns can help marketing teams to tailor their messaging and develop content .”
10 www . intelligentfin . tech