The article explores the concept of 'enclothed cognition,' where clothing influences thought and behavior, drawing parallels between modern psychological studies (Yale, Northwestern) and ancient teachings from the Torah, particularly the story of Jacob and Esau and the high priest's garments.
Torah's clothing lessons backed by Yale study showing your attire changes how you think
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The article explores the concept of 'enclothed cognition,' where clothing influences thought and behavior, drawing parallels between modern psychological studies (Yale, Northwestern) and ancient teachings from the Torah, particularly the story of Jacob and Esau and the high priest's garments.
- 1 Ancient times: Torah teachings on clothing
- 2 2012: Northwestern researchers conduct white coat experiment
- Increased understanding of the psychological impact of clothing
- Potential shift in how individuals approach dressing for different purposes
- Reinforcement of the idea that ancient texts can contain scientific truths
What: The article discusses 'enclothed cognition,' the psychological concept that what one wears influences how one thinks, feels, and performs. It connects this modern scientific finding (supported by studies from Northwestern and Yale, including a 2012 white coat experiment) to ancient wisdom found in the Torah, specifically the story of Jacob wearing Esau's clothes to receive a blessing and the detailed descriptions of the high priest's garments.
When: Published 2025-06-07T15:58:51+00:00. Northwestern study conducted in 2012. No specific date for Yale study. Torah teachings are ancient.
Where: General academic/psychological context, religious texts.
Why: To illustrate how ancient religious texts contain insights that are now being validated by modern science, emphasizing the profound impact of clothing beyond mere appearance and comfort. It suggests that dressing with purpose can lead to living with purpose.
How: By presenting examples from the Torah (Jacob and Esau, high priest's clothing) and comparing them to findings from psychological experiments (white coat study, business suits study). Professor Karen Pine's suggestions for dressing to combat sadness are also mentioned.