Chasing Life

The Forgiving Brain

Dec 5, 2023

Forgiveness science pioneer, Robert Enright, discusses the science and benefits of forgiveness, including its impact on mental and physical health. He explores the process of forgiveness and the importance of self-empowerment. Enright also highlights the measurement and development of forgiveness, as well as the effects of kindness and empathy on forgiveness.

38:11

Episode guests

Robert Enright

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Quick takeaways

Forgiveness can have psychological benefits, reducing anger, anxiety, and depression.

Forgiveness can impact the brain, leading to changes in cognitive functioning.

Deep dives

The Power of Forgiveness: A Personal Journey

Everett Worthington, a forgiveness researcher, shares his personal experience of forgiveness after his mother was murdered. Despite his grief, he made the decision to forgive the killer just 24 hours after her death. This experience solidified his belief in the transformative power of forgiveness and led him to dedicate his life to promoting forgiveness.

Introduction

3min

Exploring the Science and Benefits of Forgiveness

16min

The Process of Forgiveness Therapy and Self-Empowerment

4min

The Pathway of Forgiveness: Finding Peace and Relief

7min

Measuring and Developing Forgiveness

4min

The Effects of Kindness and Empathy on Forgiveness

3min

During the holiday season, we’re often encouraged to make amends and forgive people, but what does it take to really forgive someone? And what happens to your brain and body when you do... or don’t? In this episode, Sanjay talks with forgiveness science pioneer, Robert Enright. He’s been studying and writing about forgiveness for decades at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and he says forgiveness is a choice, and that your ability to do it can be strengthened like a muscle. Enright walks us through a range of scenarios, from forgiving small things like being late for a meeting to larger ones, like forgiving someone who’s engaged in violence.

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