How God Works: The Science Behind Spirituality Mattering
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Jan 25, 2026 Patty Van Cappellen, Duke researcher of spirituality and meaning, and Jennifer Wallace, award-winning journalist and author of Mattering, explore why feeling valued is a basic human need. They discuss how recognition, dependence, rituals, religion, and daily practices foster a sense of mattering. Conversations touch on societal shifts, caregiver strain, and practical ways to add value and reinforce worth.
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Mattering Is A Fundamental Human Need
- Mattering is a universal human need, second only to food and shelter, necessary for survival and well-being.
- Jennifer B. Wallace defines it as feeling valued and having chances to add value to others.
The SED Framework Explains Mattering
- Mattering has four parts: significant, appreciated, invested in, and depended on (SED).
- Meeting all four components is required to fully satisfy the need to matter.
Social Feedback Shapes What We Value
- Pride and motivation depend on social cues about what others value, not just personal skills.
- Social feedback can quickly create new priorities and sustained effort.
