The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos The Kindness of Strangers
Sep 20, 2021
Delve into the tragic case of Kitty Genovese and the myth of bystander apathy. Discover how personal stories, from a soldier's bravery in Vietnam to a high schooler's journey of kindness after loss, challenge traditional theories. Uncover the surprising truth: people often want to help more than we think. Explore how fostering a culture of kindness can enhance community well-being and individual happiness, emphasizing the power of small acts of compassion.
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Kitty's Murder and Family Impact
- Bill Genovese, Kitty's brother, recounts her murder and the family's struggle.
- The New York Times article claimed 38 witnesses watched without helping, deeply impacting the family.
Bill's Injury and Rescue
- Bill Genovese, a Marine, was severely injured by a bomb in Vietnam.
- He initially feared being abandoned like Kitty, but his fellow Marines risked their lives to save him.
Discrepancies in Kitty's Story
- Bill investigated Kitty's murder, uncovering discrepancies in the original narrative.
- Many "witnesses" didn't see the attack, and some who heard it called the police, contrary to initial reports.