Afford Anything GREATEST HITS: The Science of Empathy, with Stanford Professor Jamil Zaki
8 snips
Sep 16, 2024 
Stanford psychology professor Jamil Zaki dives into the fascinating world of empathy and its vital role in our professional and personal connections. He argues that empathy is not just an innate trait but a skill that can be cultivated, discussing practical strategies to enhance it in our lives. Zaki examines how digital tools and technologies, including AI and virtual reality, influence empathy today. He also explores how tribalism and broader identities can shape our willingness to connect, making a compelling case for empathy as a driver of business success.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Empathy's Mobility
- People change more than we realize, but slowly, like children growing.
- We don't see ourselves as frequently as others, so self-change is almost invisible.
Brain Adaptability
- Brain activity doesn't imply hardwiring; brains adapt like a guitarist's fret hand.
- Meditation can increase empathy and change brain structure, proving empathy's malleability.
Reverse Dehumanization
- To increase empathy, reverse dehumanization tactics.
- Avoid black-and-white thinking and reducing individuals to single identities.