Hidden Brain

Benjamin Rosenberg, a psychologist from Dominican University, delves into the intriguing dynamics of individual autonomy in relationships and decision-making. He discusses how infringements on personal freedom can spark resistance, presenting tales of psychological reactance, particularly during the COVID pandemic. By analyzing communication strategies, he reveals how language shapes our responses to authority and mandates. Through personal anecdotes, he highlights the delicate balance between freedom and restrictions, offering insights into fostering better interactions.

Daryl Van Tongeren, a psychologist specializing in humility, reveals how this underrated quality can profoundly affect workplace dynamics and personal relationships. They discuss the allure of charisma versus the lasting impact of humility on social evolution. Daryl shares insights on how humble partners boost commitment and satisfaction in romantic ties and the importance of empathy in communication. The conversation also touches on naive realism, encouraging listeners to question their perceptions and embrace the power of self-reflection for healthier connections.

Economist Alex Edmans delves into the multifaceted nature of misinformation, revealing how it often lurks in our blind spots. He discusses its insidious effects, especially in corporate scandals like British Home Stores. Edmans also uncovers the subtle relationship between employee satisfaction and CEO compensation, challenging misconceptions around corporate performance. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for critical evaluation in issues like breastfeeding, while sharing insights on mastery and the importance of curiosity in combating biases.

Psychologist Netta Weinstein discusses the value of solitude in today's fast-paced world. She challenges the misconception that being alone is inherently negative, emphasizing its mental health benefits—especially during the COVID pandemic. Through personal narratives and research, she reveals how solitude can enhance well-being, creativity, and self-understanding. Weinstein also explores the distinction between loneliness and solitude, advocating for a reevaluation of how we perceive time spent alone as a vital component of a fulfilling life.

Norman Farb, a psychologist and neuroscientist, shares insights on how our brains use mental maps to navigate life. He discusses how these maps can sometimes trap us in negativity and emotional turmoil. The conversation dives into the importance of adapting our mental frameworks to improve interpersonal connections and emotional well-being. Farb also explores how depression disrupts our perception and emphasizes the need for sensory experiences to foster presence and meaningful relationships, especially in parenting.

Nafees Hamid, a cognitive scientist specializing in the psychology of radicalization, explores the motivations behind extremist ideologies. He discusses how social exclusion can lead individuals toward violence and the significance of belonging in preventing radicalization. The conversation also touches on innovative research methods, including engaging directly with extremists and analyzing psychological roots of beliefs. Hamid emphasizes the power of inclusion and empathetic dialogue in redirecting those drawn to fringe ideas, highlighting individual journeys to purpose.

Ethan Kross, a psychologist at the University of Michigan and author of "Chatter," dives into the intriguing world of self-talk. He examines how negative inner voices can spiral into harmful chatter and the psychological effects this has on our lives. Kross shares strategies to transform this inner dialogue into a supportive tool, using personal stories and scientific insights. From navigating self-doubt to mastering emotional responses, he reveals the complexities of our inner voices and how we can harness them for personal growth.

Tali Sharot, a neuroscientist known for her work on how our brains adapt to routine, shares fascinating insights into habituation. She explains why we often take joy for granted and how our perceptions shift over time. The discussion delves into vacation happiness, revealing that joy peaks after 43 hours of leisure. Sharot emphasizes the importance of variety and novelty in life to combat complacency and rediscover meaning. Her studies also highlight the dangers of desensitization, urging us to break free from emotional patterns to reclaim our appreciation for the world.

Ara Norenzayan, a psychologist focused on the brain's relationship with belief systems, discusses how faith shapes human cognition. He delves into the psychological roots of religious beliefs, exploring how our understanding of the divine enhances emotional connections. The conversation touches on the paradox of happiness in wealthier societies and the role of religion in promoting well-being. Norenzayan emphasizes that both religious and non-religious individuals can find meaningful connections that enrich their lives.

Corey Keyes, a sociologist specializing in emotions and social well-being, explores the often misunderstood feeling of emptiness that affects many. He shares insights into why people may feel unfulfilled despite apparent success and the struggles of new parents navigating societal expectations. Keyes highlights the state of 'languishing,' where individuals grapple with emotional discontent. He emphasizes the power of social connections and pursuing genuine fulfillment over superficial happiness as crucial in combating feelings of emptiness.