James Bond

Ten traits of James Bond that research suggests really are attractive, based on Eric Barker's Barking Up the Wrong Tree article "10 ways science explains why James Bond is so attractive" (2012). The original article links to a study for nearly every point and is worth reading in full.

The ten traits

1. Confidence. Self-assured people are rated more attractive, and slightly overconfident people often perform better. Neither men nor women prefer overly modest men. Elite professionals like SWAT officers score unusually high on confidence and emotional stability.
2. Calm. Bond rarely fidgets, rushes or rambles. Stillness, slow deliberate speech, steady eye contact, good posture and open body language all read as charisma. He doesn't gush, and a little uncertainty about how he feels increases attraction. He also doesn't grin constantly; studies suggest broad happiness is less alluring in men than pride.
3. A drink in hand. Alcohol and social settings go together. In one dating survey, liking alcohol predicted sex on a first date.
4. Good judgement of people. He reads who to trust and who's interested in him.
5. The whole package. Looks, charm and a hint of danger together are what very attractive women say they look for. Women who are more feminine tend to prefer more masculine men.
6. Height and physique. Every Bond actor is tall. One online-dating study estimated a 5′6″ man needed to earn far more to be as attractive as a 6′ man. Muscular men report more partners.
7. Money and status. A high-status car does seem to make men more attractive, and generosity helps in short-term attraction.
8. Wit. A well-timed one-liner. Humour signals intelligence and predicts dating success.
9. Toughness and health. More masculine men tend to have stronger immune systems.
10. Excitement. Novel, adrenaline-filled experiences increase attraction, which is why exciting first dates work. Even the villains' henchwomen fall for him.

The takeaway

You don't need a licence to kill. Most of these are habits: stay calm, keep good posture, get fit, be witty, live an interesting life, and don't over-explain your feelings.

See also

• Strong Identity
• 12 Irresistible Traits Women Crave
• 6 Scientifically Proven Things Men Can Do To Be More Attractive
• The Brad Pitt Rule

Summary of an article by Eric Barker (Barking Up the Wrong Tree, 2012).