How to Be a Better Human
How to be less cynical (w/ Jamil Zaki)
Aug 26, 2024
Jamil Zaki, a psychology professor at Stanford and author of "Hope for Cynics," brings wit and insight to the conversation. He challenges the notion that empathy is an inherent trait, arguing instead that it can be cultivated. The discussion tackles the power of positive gossip and highlights ways to normalize compliments. Zaki encourages listeners to embrace hope amidst cynicism, showing how a collective focus on empathy can uplift group morale and reshape our perceptions of human nature.
36:34
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Quick takeaways
- Empathy, often seen as an innate trait, can be developed through practices like compassion meditation and storytelling to strengthen human connections.
- Cultivating a mindset of hopeful skepticism encourages questioning negative assumptions about others, fostering a more compassionate and understanding perspective on humanity.
Deep dives
Empathy is a Skill to Develop
Empathy is often perceived as an innate trait, but it is actually a skill that can be cultivated over time. Jamil Zaki argues that many people assume their empathy level is fixed, akin to their height, leading to a fatalistic outlook on interpersonal connections. However, research shows that our brains are capable of change throughout our lives, allowing all aspects of ourselves, including empathy, to be improved. This shift in perspective enables individuals to understand that they can actively work on enhancing their empathy through various practices.
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