S34 E3: "Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain" by Shankar Vedantam & Bill Mesler
Sep 27, 2023
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Shankar Vedantam, host of 'Hidden Brain,' explores the power of self-deception in human flourishing and its role in fostering happiness and satisfaction within relationships. They discuss how delusional beliefs about our loved ones contribute to our contentment. Additionally, they delve into the usefulness of self-deception on personal, group, and institutional levels, including the concept of nations as delusions. The chapter concludes with the proposition of harnessing self-deception for important causes like fighting climate change.
Delusions about our partners and loved ones contribute to happier relationships by acting as a buffer against potential disappointments.
Self-deception plays a significant role at both personal and societal levels, from placebo effects in clinical trials to fostering unity and cooperation in nations.
Deep dives
Delusions and Happiness in Relationships
Delusional beliefs about our partners and loved ones are crucial for our happiness and satisfaction in relationships. People who see their partners as more beautiful, intelligent, and kind than they really are tend to have happier relationships. The delusions act as a buffer against potential disappointments and help maintain a positive view of the relationship. This is also true for our beliefs about our children, as we often see them as extraordinary and unique creatures, which enables us to be better parents.
Self-Deception and Placebo Effect
Self-deception has a significant impact not only on our personal lives but also at the group and institutional levels. The placebo effect, in clinical trials, demonstrates that even sugar pills can produce positive outcomes for patients. Similarly, sham surgeries have elicited positive responses from patients. Nations, viewed as human inventions, rely on collective delusions to foster unity and cooperation. The ability to harness self-deception can be crucial in promoting social causes and inspiring passionate activism, such as fighting climate change.
Compassion and Curiosity in Addressing Delusions
Rather than purely relying on logic and reason to combat dangerous delusions and conspiracy theories, approaching such conversations with compassion and curiosity can be more effective. Understanding the psychological functions and costs of delusions for individuals is key. Instead of arguing, engaging in meaningful dialogue and asking questions about the personal significance and potential impact of giving up the delusion can foster understanding and empathy. The book advocates for compassion and curiosity, not just towards others, but also towards ourselves, recognizing that self-deception is deeply ingrained in our evolutionary history.