Speaking of Psychology

Encore -- Why we choose to suffer, with Paul Bloom, PhD

Aug 6, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Paul Bloom, a psychology professor at the University of Toronto and author of 'The Sweet Spot,' delves into the curious allure of suffering. He explores why we willingly embrace pain through activities like marathons and scary movies, highlighting the paradox of pleasure and hardship. Bloom distinguishes between chosen and unchosen suffering, questioning the societal belief in trauma leading to growth. He also discusses the moral implications of enduring struggle for a greater purpose and introduces a new book aimed at simplifying psychology.
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INSIGHT

Broad View of Suffering

  • Suffering includes a broad range of experiences, from extreme pain to mild effort like spicy foods or puzzles.
  • We often voluntarily engage in suffering because it's linked to pleasure and deeper meaning in life.
INSIGHT

How Pain Creates Pleasure

  • Pleasure from pain comes from contrast, mastery, or escape from unpleasant self-consciousness.
  • This explains why people enjoy spicy food, horror movies, marathons, or BDSM.
INSIGHT

Suffering Enables Meaning

  • Meaningful activities usually involve challenges, difficulty, and the risk of suffering.
  • Without the possibility of pain, there is no deeper satisfaction or meaning in life.
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