Hit Makers

What determines whether a creation becomes a phenomenon? In "Hit Makers," Derek Thompson, a senior editor at The Atlantic, delves into the world of pop culture through a scientific perspective to demystify the process that everyone, from businesses to creators, seeks to understand when they aim to reach an audience. By weaving together elements of ancient history and contemporary events—from the myths surrounding vampires and the soothing notes of Brahms's Lullaby to the visual impact of Instagram—Thompson investigates the economic and psychological forces that propel certain ideas or products to vast popularity.

Through insightful analysis paired with engaging storytelling, Thompson uncovers the truth that major successes like blockbuster movies, viral internet trends, and chart-topping songs are not random. They operate under identifiable principles. People tend to be drawn to familiar yet surprising innovations—creations that are groundbreaking while still being easy to grasp. Whether he’s examining the techniques used by the speechwriters of JFK and Barack Obama or unraveling the surprising factors behind the worldwide appeal of "Fifty Shades of Grey," Thompson transcends the fleeting nature of cultural trends by uncovering the underlying human desires that shape them.

While technology evolves, Thompson argues, our fundamental preferences remain unchanged, and throughout the ages, popular phenomena have consistently reflected our collective nature. From the revolutionary spirit of Impressionist art to the future potential of platforms like Snapchat, and from the entrepreneurial ventures on Etsy to the storied origins of "Star Wars," Derek Thompson artfully narrates the intriguing journey of cultural evolution and the birthplace of creativity.