TED Talks Daily Helping others makes us happier — but it matters how we do it
Dec 31, 2019
Elizabeth Dunn, a social psychologist known for her research on generosity and joy, reveals how helping others can enhance our own happiness—if done thoughtfully. She emphasizes that giving should shift from a moral obligation to a source of pleasure. Dunn shares insights on how intentional acts of kindness create deeper connections and enrich the giving experience. By sponsoring a Syrian refugee family, she showcases the transformative power of charitable giving and the communal joy it fosters.
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Giving and Happiness
- Giving to charity increases happiness, similar to doubling one's income.
- This effect is consistent globally, observed in both adults and children.
Syrian Refugee Family
- Elizabeth Dunn helped sponsor a Syrian refugee family in Vancouver.
- This personal experience highlighted the emotional impact of direct giving.
Targeted Giving
- The joy of giving increases with a stronger connection to the recipients and a clearer understanding of the impact.
- Giving to a broad charity may not evoke the same emotional response as targeted giving.