Intelligence Squared The Sweet Spot: why pain can be a pleasure
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Nov 23, 2021 
Join Paul Bloom, a Yale psychology professor and author of 'The Sweet Spot', as he explores the fascinating relationship between pain and pleasure. He discusses why activities like spicy food and marathons can be enjoyable, despite the discomfort they bring. Bloom dives into concepts like sadomasochism and the balance of life’s challenges, arguing that true fulfillment often comes from embracing discomfort. He encourages listeners to confront pain as a pathway to growth and deeper engagement in life, highlighting the importance of meaning over mere pleasure.
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Motivational Pluralism
- Humans possess diverse motivations, including pleasure, meaning, and morality.
- Balancing these motivations is key to finding one's "sweet spot" in life.
The Lure of Suffering
- A good life isn't solely about avoiding pain; chosen suffering plays a crucial role.
- Everyone seeks pain in some form, whether through physical challenges or emotional experiences.
Types of Chosen Suffering
- Chosen suffering has two forms: one for pleasure and another for meaning.
- A marathon, while painful, is valuable because of its difficulty and the sense of accomplishment.
