What It Means To Be A True Badass: An Experimental Investigation Of The Ordinary Concept

Badassness is attributed to radically different kinds of people, from peaceful advocates to fierce warriors. In four experiments (total N = 2,020), we investigated this conceptual puzzle by applying a theoretical framework according to which certain “dual-character” concepts have two different sets of criteria: one superficial and concrete, the other deeper and abstract. Study 1 found that badass is such a dual-character concept. Study 2 found that people attribute badassness on the basis of both “outer” and “inner” forms of toughness. For instance, warriors might be considered badass because of their outer toughness, whereas peaceful advocates might be considered badass because of their inner toughness. Studies 3-4 explored qualities that constitute inner toughness, revealing effects of overcoming social pressure, acting morally, pursuing difficult challenges, and succeeding in one’s efforts. In addition to clarifying this specific concept, the findings contribute to broader discussions about dual-character concepts and the roles that they play in social cognition.