stimulus vs. context

Why is it that I like the new Madonna album, even though I know if I
heard her music for the first time today I would hate it? Stimulus
vs. context.

Why is it that the only perfume I ever notice is the one my first
girlfriend wore? Stimulus vs. context.

Why is it that drinking scotch immediately puts me in a good mood,
long before the alcohol has a chance to take effect? Stimulus vs.
context.

Why is it that when people of latin descent come to the ER complaining
of belly pain we never find anything, but when people of eastern
european descent come to the ER complaining of belly pain, they
usually end up in the operating room? Stimulus vs. context.

Why is it that when I tell my mom I like her dress she thinks I’m a
mensch, but when I tell my date I like her dress she thinks I’m a lecher?
Stimulus vs. context.

Why is it that the more strongly a movie is recommended, the less
likely I am to be impressed with it? Stimulus vs. context.

Why is it that some cultures dance and sing at the death of an
elderly person, while we deny, mourn and feel victimized?