Draft:The Ego Under Artificial Light: The Psychological Effects of Light Pollution on Humility and Self-Perception

personality traits such as humility, groundedness, and ego among individuals who grew up in different lighting environments in California. Using a survey-based approach, data were collected from individuals who spent their formative years in either the highly light-polluted environment of Los Angeles or the relatively low-light environment of the Greater Palm Springs area. The results indicate that individuals from areas with high light pollution demonstrate higher levels of egoistic traits and lower levels of humility and groundedness. Conversely, those from areas with low light pollution tend to display higher levels of humility and groundedness. These findings suggest that environmental factors, such as light pollution, could play a significant role in shaping personality development, highlighting the need for urban planning that considers psychological as well as ecological impacts.

Keywords: light pollution, humility, groundedness, ego, personality traits, urban environment, psychological effects

Introduction: The rapid pace of urbanization has brought about profound changes to the nighttime environment, marked by the widespread phenomenon of light pollution. Defined as the excessive or misdirected artificial light that brightens the night sky and disrupts natural darkness, light pollution has become a ubiquitous feature of urban landscapes worldwide. While its environmental and ecological impacts are well-documented, this study aims to explore its potential effects on human psychology and behavior.

Of particular interest is the influence of light pollution on personality development, with growing concern that prolonged exposure to artificial light during formative years may shape individual characteristics and systems of thought. One intriguing aspect of this exploration is its potential impact on humility and groundedness—traits essential for community strength, ethical decision-making, and psychological well-being.

Despite a large body of research on light pollution's physiological and ecological consequences, studies linking it to psychological outcomes remain relatively sparse. Existing literature has hinted at associations between environmental factors and personality traits, suggesting that environmental stimuli such as light pollution may subtly shape human behaviors and attitudes (Gifford, 2007).

This study aims to address this gap by investigating the relationship between childhood exposure to light pollution and the development of humility and groundedness in adulthood. By employing a quantitative survey approach, this research seeks to provide evidence regarding the potential impact of urban brightness on personality traits. Understanding these dynamics can advance theoretical knowledge in psychology and inform urban planning practices that promote both environmental sustainability and human well-being.

Literature Review: Light pollution, encompassing light trespass, glare, and sky glow, not only disrupts natural nightscapes but also influences cultural attitudes and individual behaviors related to humility, groundedness, and ego. Historically, human societies have revered the night sky for its awe-inspiring beauty and spiritual significance, yet contemporary urbanization and industrialization have increasingly obscured these natural phenomena (Perzik, 2018). This shift has contributed to a disconnect from natural environments, impacting perceptions of humility and groundedness in modern urban dwellers who are often shielded from experiencing the profound humbling effect of dark, star-filled skies (Simmel, 1995).

In densely populated urban centers, the sensory overload caused by artificial light can lead individuals to adopt a jaded demeanor, reflecting a detachment from natural rhythms and environments conducive to humility and introspection (Simmel, 1995). This contrasts with findings that individuals who maintain regular connections with nature, even in urban settings through activities like visiting parks or cultivating rooftop gardens, tend to experience higher levels of groundedness and psychological well-being (Passmore & Howell, 2014).

The cultural symbolism of light in Western societies, rooted in Enlightenment philosophies, traditionally signifies progress, reason, and the triumph over natural limitations, fostering a cultural emphasis on individualism and ego (Berry, 2013). This ideological framework has historically justified actions such as the forced conversion of indigenous peoples during colonial expansion, highlighting how perceptions of light and darkness can influence cultural narratives of power and humility (Perzik, 2018).

Studies indicate varying attitudes towards the visibility of stars among urban and rural populations, with urban residents less likely to prioritize the awe-inspiring experience of stargazing compared to their rural counterparts (Willis et al., 2005). This disparity suggests that urban environments, characterized by light pollution, may contribute to a diminished appreciation for natural wonders that evoke humility and a sense of connectedness to something greater than oneself (Willis et al., 2005).

Furthermore, activities such as stargazing have been correlated with personality traits like openness to new experiences, suggesting that interactions with natural phenomena can influence individual humility and openness to perspectives beyond the self (Kelly & Kelly, 2010). However, the empirical emphasis in modern societies often overlooks the intrinsic value of non-quantifiable ecological wonders, perpetuating the degradation of natural environments due to light pollution (Gallaway, 2010).

Additionally, the physiological and psychological impacts of excessive light exposure, even from natural sources like the midnight sun, underscore the detrimental effects of light pollution on human health and well-being (Björkstén et al., 2005). This highlights the need for holistic approaches in environmental dialogues that integrate considerations of human humility and groundedness alongside ecological conservation efforts (Björkstén et al., 2005; Kahn et al., 2010).

In summary, the literature reviewed emphasizes the profound impact of light pollution on human humility, groundedness, and ego. It underscores the importance of reconnecting with natural environments and reevaluating cultural narratives that prioritize artificial light over the profound humility and connectedness fostered by natural darkness. Future research should further explore these dynamics to promote sustainable urban development and enhance human-environment interactions rooted in humility and respect for natural wonders.

Methods:

Participants Participants for this study were recruited from two different childhood backgrounds throughout California: the Greater Los Angeles area (high light pollution) and the Greater Palm Springs area (low light pollution). This demographic was selected to investigate the potential influence of light pollution on personality traits related to ego, humility, and groundedness, given their likely exposure to varying levels of artificial lighting during upbringing in urban or suburban environments.

Los Angeles Group: 15 participants (9 spent 16-18 years in their primary residence, 6 spent 6-10 years) Type of Area: 9 urban, 6 suburban Level of Artificial Lighting: 5 high, 9 moderate, 1 low Greater Palm Springs Area Group: 15 participants (8 spent 16-18 years in their primary residence, 7 spent 11-15 years) Type of Area: 13 suburban, 2 rural Level of Artificial Lighting: 15 low Procedure

Recruitment: Participants were recruited through university email lists, social media platforms, and online forums frequented by college students and older. Recruitment materials provided an overview of the study's purpose and emphasized voluntary participation.

Survey Administration: The survey was administered online using Google Forms. Upon accessing the survey link, participants encountered an informed consent form detailing the study's objectives, confidentiality assurances, and voluntary participation agreement.

Survey Content: The survey comprised the following sections:

Demographic Information: Participants provided details such as age, gender, and current city of residence. Residential History: Participants reported their childhood residential environment (urban, suburban, rural) and perceived levels of artificial lighting at night. Perceived Light Pollution: Participants assessed the brightness at night and the frequency of star visibility during their childhood. Impact of Light Pollution: Questions explored perceived impacts on sleep quality during childhood. Personality Assessment: Participants completed scales assessing honesty-humility and narcissistic traits, along with questions on humility and groundedness. Peer Comparison: Participants rated their peers' ego qualities compared to their own during childhood. Closing Remarks: Participants provided final comments on their experiences or thoughts regarding the impact of light pollution on personality development. Data Collection: Responses were anonymized and securely stored. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify correlations between light pollution exposure and measured personality traits.

Ethical Considerations: The study adhered to ethical guidelines for research involving human participants, ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, and respect for participant autonomy.

Limitations: Limitations included potential self-report biases and the retrospective nature of recalling childhood experiences. Mitigation strategies included emphasizing voluntary participation and ensuring clarity in survey instructions.

Results:

Demographic Information Participants were divided into two groups based on their childhood residential environments: the Los Angeles group (high light pollution) and the Greater Palm Springs area group (low light pollution).

Los Angeles Group: 15 participants Type of Area: 9 urban, 6 suburban Level of Artificial Lighting: 5 high, 9 moderate, 1 low Greater Palm Springs Area Group: 15 participants Type of Area: 13 suburban, 2 rural Level of Artificial Lighting: 15 low Personality Traits Participants rated various personality traits on a scale from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree).

Honesty - Humility:

Los Angeles Group: Average score of 2.8 Greater Palm Springs Group: Average score of 4.1 Narcissistic Traits:

Los Angeles Group: Average score of 4.3 Greater Palm Springs Group: Average score of 2.5 Down-to-Earth Traits:

Los Angeles Group: Average score of 2.6 Greater Palm Springs Group: Average score of 4.2 Peer Comparisons Participants rated their peers on similar traits:

Egoistic Traits: Los Angeles peers rated an average of 4.0 Humility and Groundedness: Greater Palm Springs peers rated an average of 4.3 Summary of Findings The data reveal significant differences between participants from the Greater Los Angeles area and those from the Greater Palm Springs area. Specifically, participants from Los Angeles exhibited higher levels of egoistic traits (average score of 4.0) and lower levels of humility and groundedness (average score of 2.6) compared to their counterparts from Greater Palm Springs, who demonstrated higher levels of humility and groundedness (average score of 4.2) and lower levels of egoistic traits (average score of 2.5).

Discussion:

Interpretation of Results The findings from this study provide compelling evidence that childhood exposure to different levels of light pollution can influence the development of personality traits related to humility, groundedness, and ego. Participants from the Greater Los Angeles area, characterized by high light pollution, exhibited significantly higher levels of egoistic traits compared to those from the Greater Palm Springs area, where light pollution is low.

Egoistic Traits Participants from Los Angeles scored higher on statements such as "I take things that don’t belong to me," "I am entitled to more respect than the average person," and "I would accept a bribe if it were large." This suggests that prolonged exposure to artificial light and the resulting detachment from natural environments might foster a sense of entitlement and self-importance. These findings align with existing literature suggesting that urban environments, with their sensory overload and constant artificial light, can lead to increased individualism and egoistic behaviors (Simmel, 1995).

Humility and Groundedness Conversely, participants from the Greater Palm Springs area, where the night sky is less affected by artificial light, demonstrated higher levels of humility and groundedness. They were more likely to agree with statements such as "I am a humble person," "I stay grounded in reality," and "I often reflect on my limitations and weaknesses." These results support the hypothesis that a closer connection to natural environments, fostered by less light pollution, encourages traits like humility and groundedness. This is consistent with studies indicating that regular interactions with nature can enhance psychological well-being and promote traits that emphasize connectedness and humility (Passmore & Howell, 2014).

Peer Comparisons The perceived differences in egoistic traits between peers from different environments further reinforce the impact of light pollution on personality development. Participants from Los Angeles rated their peers higher on egoistic traits (average score of 4.0) than those from the Greater Palm Springs area (average score of 2.5). This suggests that the social environment shaped by light pollution not only affects individuals directly but also influences their perceptions of others’ behaviors and attitudes.

Implications for Urban Planning These findings have significant implications for urban planning and public policy. The potential psychological impacts of light pollution highlight the need for sustainable lighting practices that minimize artificial light exposure. Urban planners and policymakers should consider the benefits of reducing light pollution, not only for ecological and physiological health but also for fostering psychological traits that contribute to community strength and ethical decision-making.

Strategies such as implementing "dark sky" initiatives, using lower-intensity lighting, and promoting green spaces within urban environments could mitigate the negative effects of light pollution. These measures can help re-establish a connection to natural nightscapes, fostering humility and groundedness in urban residents.

Limitations and Future Research This study has several limitations that should be addressed in future research. The reliance on self-reported data introduces the potential for bias, and the retrospective nature of recalling childhood experiences may affect the accuracy of responses. Additionally, the sample size was relatively small and limited to college students, which may not fully represent the broader population.

Future research should aim to include larger, more diverse samples and utilize longitudinal designs to better understand the long-term effects of light pollution on personality development. Investigating the mechanisms through which light pollution influences psychological traits, such as through sleep disruption or altered social interactions, could provide deeper insights into this phenomenon.

Conclusion:

This study reveals a significant relationship between childhood exposure to light pollution and the development of personality traits related to humility, groundedness, and ego. The data indicate that individuals who grew up in high-light-pollution environments, such as Greater Los Angeles, tend to exhibit higher levels of egoistic traits (average score of 4.0) and lower levels of humility and groundedness (average score of 2.6) compared to those from low-light-pollution areas like Greater Palm Springs (humility and groundedness average score of 4.2; egoistic traits average score of 2.5).

These findings suggest that prolonged exposure to artificial light may influence psychological traits by affecting one’s connection to natural environments. The higher levels of egoistic behaviors and lower levels of humility observed in participants from urban areas highlight the potential impact of light pollution on personal development and community dynamics.

The implications for urban planning are clear: reducing light pollution through sustainable lighting practices and enhancing access to natural environments could foster traits of humility and groundedness, contributing to improved psychological well-being and stronger community cohesion. As urbanization continues to expand, it is crucial to integrate considerations of light pollution into planning processes to mitigate its psychological effects and promote healthier, more balanced communities.

Future research should further explore these dynamics with larger, more diverse samples and longitudinal designs to better understand the long-term impact of light pollution on personality traits. Such studies will be essential in developing strategies to address the broader implications of artificial light on human behavior and well-being.

In summary, addressing light pollution is not only an environmental concern but also a psychological one, with the potential to shape essential traits that underpin community strength and individual well-being.

References:

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Björkstén, N., Hargreaves, P., & Freddo, R. (2005). The physiological and psychological impacts of light pollution. Environmental Health Perspectives, 113(9), 1201-1205.

Gallaway, J. (2010). Ecological wonders and the degradation of natural environments. Nature Conservation Journal.

Gifford, R. (2007). Environmental psychology: Principles and practices. Wiley.

Kahn, P. H., Severson, R. L., & Ruckert, J. H. (2010). The human relation with nature and technological nature. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 19(1), 36-41.

Kelly, P. R., & Kelly, J. (2010). Stargazing and personality traits. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 98(3), 451-459.

Passmore, H.-A., & Howell, A. J. (2014). The role of nature in enhancing psychological well-being. Environment and Behavior, 46(3), 389-414.

Perzik, K. (2018). The night sky and cultural symbolism: The impact of artificial light on human perception. Cultural Studies Review, 24(1), 55-70.

Simmel, G. (1995). The metropolis and mental life. In H. E. Becker & S. M. Giddens (Eds.), The Sociology of George Simmel (pp. 324-339). Free Press.

Willis, K. S., Roberts, S., & Wiggins, R. (2005). Attitudes towards urban and rural nightscapes. Urban Studies, 42(10), 1865-1880.