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Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied

Randolph Nesse on Anxiety and Evolution (Episode 72)

Aug 25, 2023
Dr. Randolph Nesse, author of 'Good Reasons for Bad Feelings,' discusses anxiety from an evolutionary perspective. The podcast explores the evolutionary origins of anxiety, the role of commitment in social groups, imposter syndrome, mental health treatments, charisma, and human nature. Delve into the essential conversation on understanding negative emotions and insights of the Stoics.
48:18

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Anxiety serves as a motivational tool to steer individuals away from harm and towards better choices.
  • Social anxiety is influenced by the human preference for trustworthy and empathetic social partners, impacting relationships and success.

Deep dives

The role of anxiety and its evolutionary origins

Dr. Randolph Nessie discusses the evolutionary purpose of anxiety, highlighting its role in helping organisms avoid dangers and losses. He explains how anxiety, although often uncomfortable, motivates individuals to steer clear of harmful situations and make better choices in the future. He also explores the concept of the hair-trigger response in anxiety and the challenges it presents in modern society. Dr. Nessie emphasizes the importance of understanding anxiety and finding ways to cope effectively with it.

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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode