The gentle nudge to quit smoking (VIDEO)

Among the many ways to quit smoking, one doesn't involve prohibitions or prescriptions, but simply a free and responsible choice: it's the "gentle nudge." We've always supported this approach to improving our lifestyles, making them more enjoyable and beneficial to our peace of mind, and to combating all forms of waste. From material things, like food or clothing, to the most precious things, like health and life itself. And we're happy to know that across the pond, in America, a path to new lifestyles has been developed, inspired by the " gentle nudge ," which closely resembles the philosophy of Non-Waste and some practical goals, such as quitting smoking.

This theory aims to gently nudge citizens into better behavior for themselves and the community. Developed by Richard Thaler of the University of Chicago , it is gaining widespread support. Unlike bans, which rely on sanctions and fines, nudging relies on free will and incentives . A prime example of nudging comes from Mexico City, a metropolis with two major problems: pollution and obesity ( more than a third of Mexicans suffer from the problem). Motion-sensing machines have been installed in the Mexico City subway system that give a free ticket to anyone who does 30 push-ups. It may seem like a game, but it's a form of incentive aimed at improving lifestyles. And it certainly does so better than bans and fines.

A city inspired and organized around the "gentle nudge" (the Anglo-Saxons call it a Behavioral City) is also being explored at the 2025 Architecture Biennale directed by Carlo Ratti. Behaviors matter, and they become contagious. A few examples: Rather than reporting those who don't pay taxes, often in a generic way, the administrators of the kind city can write to taxpayers highlighting cases of virtuous citizens who pay taxes and thus contribute to the well-being of the community. To combat fake news, rather than wasting resources and energy on fact-checking, which risks reinforcing false information, it's important to start with real facts, such as achievements, and encourage citizens' critical thinking, which also benefits administrators.

Read also:

• How to quit smoking
• How to stop smoking from happening again