Collective Insights Awe - Dacher Keltner - Neuroscience
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Apr 23, 2024 
Neuroscientist Dacher Keltner explores the neuroscience of awe, discussing its impact on well-being, community, and nature. He touches on the transformative power of awe, the evolutionary role of emotions like sadness, and cultivating awe in daily life. The podcast also delves into the profound bond between humans and nature, promoting a sense of unity with the ecosystem and encouraging shared peak experiences for lasting effects.
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Psychological and Physiological Response to Awe
- Awe diminishes self-focus and promotes connection with something larger.
- It involves physiological shifts like decreased default mode network activity, tearing up, and oxytocin release.
Awe's Unique Effect on the Self
- Awe uniquely reduces the sense of self among positive emotions.
- Other positive emotions like amusement, pride, love, and desire do not have this effect.
The Science of Goosebumps and Awe
- Goosebumps during awe are caused by pyloerection, tiny muscles contracting around hair follicles.
- Pyloerection is a social response, promoting connection and collectivity in the face of awe.