Finally, someone answers the question of which kind of expression of creativity has the most sex appeal. The Journal of Creative Behavior reports on research conducted at the University of Pennsylvania. Here, from the abstract, are the conclusions:
Both males and females preferred ornamental/aesthetic forms of creativity in a prospective sexual partner than applied/technological and everyday/domestic forms of creativity.
THE TEN SEXIEST
But which specific creative behaviors do people find most attractive? The study had more female participants than males, which may skew the results. However, the top ten are:
1. Playing sports
2. Taking a date on a spontaneous road trip
3. Recording music
4. Making a clever remark
5. Writing music
6. Performing in a band
7. The taking of artistic photographs
8. Performing in comedy
9. Dressing in a unique style
10. Writing poetry
Of course, there's a lot of margin for error in these. For example, taking a date on a spontaneous road trip is most appealing if it's done with his/her permission and doesn't involve the use of handcuffs (usually).
"Dressing in a unique style" is dangerously open to interpretation, as is what constitutes a "clever"' remark.
In many instances, it's a good idea to let the prospective partner know that you write poetry, but not actually recite any you've written.
I'm a bit puzzled by number 3, "recording music," especially as it's listed above writing music and performing in a band. What can it mean? Taping songs off the radio?
THE LEAST SEXY TEN
The study also revealed the ten least sexy behaviors:
1. Making ad campaigns
2. Interior decorating
3. Writing an original computer program
4. Making websites
5. Growing and gardening
6. Presenting scientific or mathematical papers
7. Exterior decorating
8. Applying math in an original way to solve a practical problem
9. The development of scientific experimental designs
10. Participating in drama production
I'm shocked to see participating in drama productions at the very bottom, below even presenting scientific or mathematical papers. I thought actors or actresses would find themselves near the top. Maybe the respondents had recently seen an amateur dramatic society production. I've seen one or two of those that were less entertaining than watching someone applying math in an original way to solve a practical problem.
[Lists from the researcher's blog at Scientific American]
