TED: Why some people are more altruistic than others | Abigail Marsh

The speaker recounts a life-changing event where a stranger saved their life, leading them to pursue a career in psychology to study altruism. The talk explores the roots of altruism, contrasting it with psychopathy, and highlights the unique brain characteristics of extraordinary altruists. The speaker discusses the role of humility and societal changes in expanding compassion and altruism.

What event led the speaker to explore the concept of altruism?

• A family member inspired her.

• She witnessed a heroic act on television.

• She read a book about altruism.

• A stranger saved her from a car accident.

What is the speaker's main focus in her psychology research?

• Understanding why people are selfish.

• Exploring the human capacity to care for others.

• Studying the effects of wealth on behavior.

• Analyzing the role of fear in decision-making.

How do psychopaths typically respond to others' distress?

• They feel compelled to help.

• They become anxious.

• They are indifferent to it.

• They are highly sensitive to it.

What brain structure is crucial for recognizing fear in others?

• Prefrontal cortex

• Amygdala

• Cerebellum

• Hippocampus

What distinguishes extraordinary altruists from average people?

• They are more intelligent.

• They are more compassionate towards strangers.

• They have more wealth.

• They have a larger social circle.

What is a common characteristic of extraordinary altruists' brains?

• Smaller amygdalas

• Less reactive to fear

• Larger and more reactive amygdalas

• More developed prefrontal cortex

What societal trend is contributing to increased altruism?

• Decreased wealth

• Increased awareness of distant suffering

• More violent media

• Less education

What paradoxical perception exists despite the world becoming more humane?

• People think altruism is decreasing.

• People feel less connected to others.

• People are unaware of global suffering.

• People believe the world is becoming more cruel.

What does the speaker believe about the potential for expanding compassion?

• It is only possible for a few people.

• It is within reach for almost everyone.

• It requires significant wealth.

• It is a natural trait that cannot be developed.

What historical change does the speaker suggest might happen with kidney donations?

• They will only be done for family members.

• They will be banned.

• They will be seen as ordinary as blood donations.

• They will become less common.