The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Psychopaths and Superheroes

8 snips
Apr 27, 2020
In this discussion, Abigail Marsh, a Georgetown psychology professor and expert on altruism, reveals the inspiring world of super altruists—those who risk their own well-being to help others. She shares her personal story of being saved by a stranger, sparking her passion for exploring the brain's role in compassion. The conversation dives into how selfless actions can lead to greater happiness and how understanding altruism can transform our lives. Listeners are encouraged to embrace generosity for a more fulfilling existence.
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ANECDOTE

Abigail's Near-Death Experience

  • At 19, Abigail Marsh swerved to avoid a dog, spun her car, and stalled facing oncoming traffic on a highway bridge.
  • A stranger risked his life running across the highway to help her restart her car and ensured her safety.
INSIGHT

Inspiration for Research

  • The selfless act of her rescuer sparked Marsh's research into human motivation, especially altruism.
  • She questioned conventional wisdom about human selfishness given this real-world example of compassion.
INSIGHT

Psychopathy and Altruism

  • Abigail Marsh, a psychology professor, studied psychopaths to understand altruism.
  • By studying the lack of compassion, she hoped to understand its origins in others.
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