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EconTalk

Does Parenting Make You a Better Person? (with Erik Hoel)

Jul 22, 2024
Neuroscientist Erik Hoel discusses how parenting shapes personal growth and moral development, challenging popular perceptions. The conversation covers parenting styles, children's book preferences, and the transformative effects of raising kids. They also touch on the pressures of elite college students, homeschooling challenges, and societal judgments surrounding parenting choices.
01:24:18

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Parenting fosters selflessness and a deeper connection to life's complexities.
  • Finding a balance between authority and nurturing leads to positive child development.

Deep dives

Parenting Makes You a Better Person

Parenting has been described as a transformative experience that shifts one's focus from personal preferences and optimization to nurturing a child's growth. The transition from a self-centered existence to one centered around a child's needs can lead to a profound shift in perspective. Parents often find relief in relinquishing their 'utility monster' status, prioritizing their child's well-being over personal desires. This shift towards selflessness and appreciation for the 'lore of the world' can lead to a sense of unjadedness and a deeper connection to the complexities of life.

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