Social influence on musical taste

Alan and Diana, I told you about this fascinating study already -- over 14,000 people listened to 48 songs by unknown bands online, rated them, then decided which ones to download, simulating a music market. 8 different "worlds" were run, in which either knowledge of others' preferences was provided or withheld. Turns out figuring out what's going to be a "hit" is indeed a tricky business.

No one really likes what they listen to, we're just a bunch of dumb music-loving sheep. Ahhhhh!

(If you're not at school with access to articles online let me know and I can email it to you)