The Markey Effect refers to a multidisciplinary phenomenon wherein exposure to environments, objects, or phenomena that integrate aesthetic stimulation, symbolic meaning, and emotional resonance results in measurable enhancements in cognitive flexibility, emotional engagement, creative output, motivational persistence, and meaning-making processes.

It emerges through the dynamic interaction of sensorially pleasing stimuli (such as glittering or naturally beautiful elements), culturally or personally symbolic associations, and the elicitation of positive emotional states (such as awe, inspiration, and hope).

The Markey Effect synthesizes theoretical frameworks from biophilia (Wilson, 1984), O’Grady (2018), astrophilia (Markey, 2019), glistophilia (Markey, 2025), positive psychology (Seligman, 2011), and enclothed cognition (Adam & Galinsky, 2012), offering a unifying model for understanding how aesthetic-symbolic environments can optimize psychological functioning, educational outcomes, professional performance, and overall well-being across diverse populations.