Dr. Dacher Keltner, a leading emotion scientist and Professor at UC Berkeley, discusses the remarkable effects of awe on our well-being. He defines awe as a response to vast and beautiful experiences, which can easily be found in nature, music, and kindness. The conversation explores how awe fosters social connections and enhances mental health, emphasizing the transformative power of shared experiences in community settings. Keltner also highlights how confronting life’s challenges can deepen our appreciation of awe, connecting us to something greater.

Dacher Keltner, a psychologist at UC Berkeley and author of 'Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder,' explores the powerful emotion of awe. He shares personal experiences of awe during grief, emphasizing its ability to transform perspectives and deepen connections. Listeners hear about the 'overview effect' astronauts experience from space, which fosters a sense of interconnectedness. Keltner also discusses the psychological benefits of awe, its role in promoting altruism, and how everyday moments can cultivate a sense of wonder.

Dr. Dachner Keltner is the founding director of the Greater Good Science center, as well as a professor of psychology at the University of California Berkeley, so he’s in a special place to discuss some incredibly interesting positive psychological topics like love, awe, teasing, compassion, empathy, gratitude and much more! It’s a fun and fascinating episode where we take a deep look into the science of the good life. Enjoy the show! Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-psychology-podcast/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.