How to Be a Better Human Psychopathy versus altruism: the neuroscience of caring about others (w/ Abigail Marsh)
50 snips
May 12, 2025 Abigail Marsh, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Georgetown University and author of *The Fear Factor*, dives into the intriguing world of psychopathy and altruism. She discusses why extreme altruists, like organ donors, exist alongside the morally ambiguous traits of some highly successful individuals. Marsh unpacks the brain differences between these groups and critiques American culture's obsession with psychopathy. Plus, she shares parent strategies for navigating children's behavioral challenges, advocating for a blend of discipline and empathy.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Life-Saving Altruism Story
- Abigail Marsh shares a personal story of a stranger who saved her life by risking his own.
- He never told her his name or sought thanks, embodying pure altruism without recognition.
Altruism Linked to Humility
- Extreme altruists often insist they are no different from others, reflecting humility.
- Genuine altruism requires seeing others as equal, not viewing oneself as more important.
Altruism Boosted by Caring
- Altruists empathize deeply with strangers' pain, but don't necessarily empathize better overall.
- They intrinsically care more about others, which motivates their empathy and altruistic acts.
