This chapter explores the concept of collective effervescence and how it can have positive effects on mental health, such as reducing loneliness, increasing feelings of meaning in life, and boosting confidence.
Dr. Shira Gabriel is a psychologist who studies the science of human connection. In recent years she’s turned her attention to collective effervescence, a feeling we get when we experience something transcendent with other people. If you've ever been to a concert or a political rally, you've probably felt this type of awe. Shira explains the many mental health benefits of collective effervescence and why it's easier to seek out than you might think (spoiler alert: you can still experience it even if you don't like big crowds!)
If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like our recent interviews with Dacher Keltner and Min Kym.
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