Hidden Brain

Erica Bailey, a social scientist at UC Berkeley, studies the profound effects of authenticity on well-being. She discusses the delicate balance between being true to oneself and conforming to societal expectations. The conversation explores the emotional turmoil of navigating authenticity within rigid social environments, the importance of self-discovery, and the costs of living inauthentically. Bailey offers insights on connecting with one's inner self and actionable steps to cultivate a more meaningful life, challenging listeners to embrace their true selves.

Sheena Iyengar, a social psychologist from Columbia University renowned for her insights on creativity and innovation, shares fascinating research on how powerful ideas are born. She explores the neuroscience behind those 'aha' moments, revealing that everyday experiences can spark creativity. The conversation highlights the role of diverse connections and collaboration in innovation, and how constraints can paradoxically lead to greater creativity. Iyengar's insights encourage us to cultivate our own creative breakthroughs by recognizing their unexpected origins.

Sandra Matz, a computational social scientist at Columbia University, unpacks how our online behaviors unveil deeper truths about our identities. She discusses the discrepancies between self-perception and actual behavior, revealing how digital footprints can reflect personality traits and even predict socioeconomic status. Matz highlights the potential for using this data to foster positive changes in health and financial habits, while also exploring the implications for mental health support and the challenges of online surveillance.

Marketing researcher Jeff Galak from Carnegie Mellon University dives into the psychology of gift-giving. He uncovers why our thoughtful presents often miss the mark, emphasizing the disconnect between what givers intend and what recipients truly want. Galak advocates for clear communication about preferences and the value of experiential gifts over material ones. He also shares how spontaneous gifting can deepen relationships, encouraging us to rethink our approach to meaningful connections through thoughtful, personalized gifts.

Philip Zimbardo, a renowned psychologist recognized for the Stanford prison experiment, dives into the troubling question of why ordinary people commit evil acts. He shares insights from his controversial study, illustrating how situational roles transform behavior. The discussion unveils the dark undercurrents of power dynamics and dehumanization, linking Zimbardo’s findings to contemporary instances like the abuses at Abu Ghraib. He champions the importance of self-awareness and moral education in combatting the potential for cruelty inherent in all of us.

Robyn Fivush, a psychologist at Emory University, discusses the profound impact family stories have on our identities and mental health. She explores how these narratives connect generations and foster emotional resilience, particularly for children. Fivush introduces the 'Do You Know Scale' to measure family engagement in storytelling, highlighting the significance of both joyful and challenging experiences. The conversation dives into the healing power of sharing memories and the invaluable role of unsung heroes within family stories.

Doug Fields, a neuroscientist intrigued by the brain's responses to emotions, shares a gripping story of how a pickpocket incident in Europe ignited unexpected rage within him. Alongside Jess Cavender, who transformed fear into fierce determination during a harrowing home invasion, they explore the unpredictable nature of anger. The discussion delves into personal experiences, the evolutionary roots of rage, and its dual role as both a catalyst for social movements and a response to personal trauma.

Jordi Quoidbach, a psychologist at Asade Business and Law School, delves into the complexities of emotions and challenges the obsession with constant happiness. He argues that an emotional monoculture can lead to unhappiness, making a case for embracing the full spectrum of feelings. The discussion highlights the importance of emotional diversity for resilience and well-being, emphasizing that acknowledging both positive and negative emotions can enhance decision-making and improve overall life satisfaction.

Naomi Rothman, a psychologist at Lehigh University specializing in mixed emotions, shares her insights on ambivalence and its complexities. She discusses how feeling both happy and sad can affect our perceptions and relationships, especially in leadership roles. With personal anecdotes, she highlights the societal preference for decisive leaders and the often misunderstood nature of mixed emotions in professional settings. Rothman emphasizes that embracing this emotional complexity can enhance creativity and enrich our connections with others.

Jessica Tracy, a psychologist at the University of British Columbia and author of "Pride, the Secret of Success," unpacks the dual nature of pride. She challenges the notion that pride is solely negative, showcasing its ability to foster creativity and altruism. Tracy explores 'authentic pride' versus 'hubristic pride' and how they shape our behaviors and judgments. She emphasizes the importance of self-worth over external validation, especially in parenting, arguing that genuine pride can drive us toward our true passions and long-term goals.