In this engaging discussion, Samuel Wilkinson, an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Yale and author of "Purpose," highlights the evolutionary roots of altruism, challenging the selfishness narrative. He emphasizes the vital role of relationships and family in fostering happiness, supported by the Harvard Adult Development Study. The conversation also explores affective forecasting, revealing how we often misjudge true sources of joy. Lastly, Wilkinson underscores the balance between individual desires and the collective needs crucial for thriving partnerships.
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insights INSIGHT
Altruism in Evolution
Humans are not solely self-interested as suggested by "survival of the fittest".
Altruism plays a vital role, especially in group settings like families and communities.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Honeybee Altruism
Darwin used honeybees to illustrate altruism, where worker bees are infertile but support the queen's reproduction.
This highlighted the concept of kin selection, where altruism benefits relatives and shared genes.
insights INSIGHT
Family and Altruism
The deepest forms of human altruism, love, and cooperation stem from evolved family relationships.
When family relationships are harmonious, people's better nature tends to prevail.
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This play, adapted by Jeremy Sams from the original sitcom by John Esmonde and Bob Larbey, follows Tom and Barbara Good as they transform their suburban home in Surbiton into a model of self-sufficiency. They grow their own food, keep livestock, make their own clothes, and generate electricity from manure. The play reunites the beloved characters, including Geraldine the goat, and explores issues of sustainability and community, blending old and new comedic elements.
On Purpose
Tanya Dalton
In *On Purpose*, Tanya Dalton helps women carve out time to pause, reflect on their feelings, and adjust their mindset to discover what drives their daily choices. The book combines cutting-edge research, thought-provoking infographics, and candid stories to guide readers through innovative exercises. These exercises help readers create a map to their ideal future, move through life with confidence, turn obstacles into opportunities, unpack common self-lies, and live a more fulfilling life. Dalton emphasizes the importance of living intentionally and making choices that align with one's true purpose and values.
Join me as I continue my fascinating conversation with Yale professor Samuel Wilkinson, author of the thought-provoking book "Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply About the Meaning of Our Existence." Listen in as we tackle the intriguing topic of altruism in the evolutionary narrative, debunking the myth that survival hinges solely on selfishness. The significance of relationships and family takes center stage in our discussion as we share insights into how these bonds form the bedrock of happiness and meaning in our lives. Explore findings from the Harvard Adult Development Study that showcase the undeniable link between well-being and warm, supportive connections. The conversation doesn't shy away from the hard truths either, addressing the impact of detachment in early life and the innate human craving for closeness. We also dissect the psychological and evolutionary drivers that make personal relationships a central pillar of our contentment. Learn about the role of affective forecasting in our lives, highlighting our tendency to misjudge what will bring us true happiness, and the constant balancing act required to nurture our most cherished connections. We delve into the dual nature of humans—capable of both selfish and altruistic behaviors—and how the success of partnerships and family life often hinges on the willingness to put collective needs above individual desires.
Samuel Wilkinson is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Yale Depression Research Program. Dr. Wilkinson received his B.S. in mechanical engineering, summa cum laude, from Brigham Young University and later his medical degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Yale, where he joined the faculty following his post-graduate medical training. His primary research has focused on depression and suicide prevention and has been funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute of Drug Abuse, the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
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