Three Model Organisms For Taste

2026-05-08 · Source: Astral Codex Ten · Field: Media & Entertainment — Creative Industries & Arts, Content Creation & Production · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, long

Summary

The article explores the concept of "taste" through three distinct lenses: vexillology, movie plot holes, and tech company naming conventions. It begins by detailing the traditional "Code of Good Flags," which emphasizes simplicity, lack of text, and adherence to the Rule of Tincture (no metal on metal, or color on color). It then presents a "Reddit Vexillologist" perspective that defends these rules based on historical battlefield utility, ease of amateur production, and child-friendliness, alongside an aesthetic argument. Counterarguments from the "Resistance" challenge these rationales, citing modern manufacturing, historical flag complexity (e.g., medieval Venice), and the fact that many iconic flags violate these conventions. The discussion extends to movie plot holes, using Obi-Wan's decision to hide Luke with his stepbrother as an example, questioning whether such flaws diminish enjoyment or indicate poor taste. Finally, it analyzes tech company names, contrasting "Infinita" (an "easy win") with "Vitalia" (clever due to its subtle nod to Vitalik Buterin and biotech focus), and critiques AI-generated poetry for its reliance on cliches, labeling them as "easy wins" that feel manipulative.

Key takeaway

For product designers or brand strategists evaluating naming conventions or visual identities, recognize that "easy wins" can feel manipulative and lack genuine cleverness. Your audience may perceive a difference between superficially appealing choices and those with deeper, contextual meaning. Prioritize authenticity and subtle nods over generic coolness to cultivate a more sophisticated brand perception.

Key insights

Taste often reflects acculturation to historical artifacts and limitations, rather than timeless aesthetic truths.

Principles

• Simplicity is not universally superior in design.
• Context dictates the relevance of design rules.

In practice

• Question established aesthetic rules in your domain.
• Evaluate design choices against current context, not just tradition.

Topics

• Vexillology
• Aesthetic Rules
• Taste Perception
• Movie Plot Holes
• Tech Company Naming

Best for: General Interest, Product Designer

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Astral Codex Ten.