Science

Want to have a better chat? Scientists say the secret is ‘pink noise’

The secret of a mutually satisfying exchange is a healthy dose of pink noise, they say.

✦ Extractive summary — built from the sources' own reporting•From 1 source•1 min read•Updated November 6, 2026, 7:00 PM UTC

Now scientists have followed in the great orator’s footsteps and discovered a telltale signature of an enjoyable chinwag.

The most enjoyable conversations strike a balance between exploring a topic and pulling in fresh ideas, study finds As an early stab at rules for conversation, Cicero did a fine job: watch your tone, never look bored, never lose your temper and never ramble on, particularly about yourself, he advised.

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