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The surprising psychology behind your urge to break the rules | Paul Bloom

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Mar 16, 2023
Explore the intriguing urge to break rules and the psychology behind it. Paul Bloom uncovers the surprising beauty in our minor acts of rebellion, revealing how they spark creativity and excitement. He discusses the dual nature of these impulses, balancing the allure of freedom with the consequences of our actions. Personal stories shed light on how rebellion can serve deeper psychological and artistic purposes, making life unpredictable and fun. Buckle up as we delve into the colorful world of our darker desires!
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ANECDOTE

Augustine's Pears

  • St. Augustine confessed to stealing pears in his youth, not for hunger, but for the thrill of wrongdoing.
  • This act, seemingly motivated by "wickedness itself," disturbed him deeply.
ANECDOTE

Perversity Project

  • Paul Bloom's "perversity project" gathered stories of people's perverse actions.
  • One participant admitted to flirting with a friend's boyfriend solely to make her uncomfortable.
ANECDOTE

Benign Perversity

  • Not all perverse acts are destructive; some are benign, like sticking a finger in a friend's ice cream.
  • Another example is walking on the grass despite knowing it's wrong.
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