Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Placebo Button

A placebo button is a push-button that appears to do something, but actually has no effect, like a placebo. They exist to give the user an illusion of control.[1]

Many walk buttons at pedestrian crossings in New York City were once functional, but now serve as placebo buttons.[2] Many door close buttons in elevators are placebo buttons.[1][3] Some office thermostats may also function similarly.[4]

I KNEW IT!  Thank you Wikipedia.

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