Motivational Pluralism in Human Aspirations

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Humans have motivational pluralism, desiring a range of gratifying experiences rather than a single aspiration. This concept extends beyond psychology to a philosophical and moral view, suggesting that life holds more significance than just seeking happiness.

In “Psych: The Story of the Human Mind,” Paul Bloom, a professor of psychology at the University of Toronto, lays out, in his words, “basically everything I know about the mind.” And when he says “everything,” he means it. Where does consciousness come from? Does IQ matter? What makes us happy? Was Sigmund Freud a madman? The answers to these questions (and more) are all in Paul’s book — and in this episode.

An edited version of Rufus’s interview with Paul first aired in April 2023. Today, we’re bringing you their entire conversation.

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