I can see where calmness and an effortless affect would be a valuable social signal that someone has experience or competence at handling the issue at hand, and therefore would naturally be seen as a leader. But it's interesting where the two - competence and coolness - aren't always coupled. We often think of cool as a character trait - 'he *is* cool', not 'he acts cool when knitting because he's done it for years'. It seems like there's cool derived from competence/experience, cleverness/talent, and also sometimes that can't be attributed to either.
I think you’re right that there can be a perception of coolness that comes from experience. It makes me think of someone operating a chainsaw, for example. If they’ve done it for years, they may appear composed and effortless, which may look “cool”, though it’s less a social expression than one of comfort with the process. Someone who has a “cool” vibe might not make that impression operating a chainsaw for the first time. Does that reflect your point?
A related idea that you mentioned is the connection between coolness and competence (or lack thereof). I think that sometimes, coolness is a subterfuge. It can make an impression or perception that has little to do with expertise, talent, etc. Maybe that’s a talent in itself?
Exactly, and that the social expression could have roots in the way competent or experienced people acted. Agree the subterfuge can be a talent in itself - that's a good way of putting it.
I can see where calmness and an effortless affect would be a valuable social signal that someone has experience or competence at handling the issue at hand, and therefore would naturally be seen as a leader. But it's interesting where the two - competence and coolness - aren't always coupled. We often think of cool as a character trait - 'he *is* cool', not 'he acts cool when knitting because he's done it for years'. It seems like there's cool derived from competence/experience, cleverness/talent, and also sometimes that can't be attributed to either.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment Adam!
I think you’re right that there can be a perception of coolness that comes from experience. It makes me think of someone operating a chainsaw, for example. If they’ve done it for years, they may appear composed and effortless, which may look “cool”, though it’s less a social expression than one of comfort with the process. Someone who has a “cool” vibe might not make that impression operating a chainsaw for the first time. Does that reflect your point?
A related idea that you mentioned is the connection between coolness and competence (or lack thereof). I think that sometimes, coolness is a subterfuge. It can make an impression or perception that has little to do with expertise, talent, etc. Maybe that’s a talent in itself?
Exactly, and that the social expression could have roots in the way competent or experienced people acted. Agree the subterfuge can be a talent in itself - that's a good way of putting it.