Name: Why some people are more altruistic than others
Uploaded: 2016-09-16T14:47:18Z
Duration: 12 min 12 s
Description: Why do some people do selfless things, helping other people even at risk to their own well-being? Psychology researcher Abigail Marsh studies the motivations of people who do extremely altruistic acts, like donating a kidney to a complete stranger. Are their brains just different?

"The norm of self-interest"

Why do some people do selfless things, helping other people even at risk to their own well-being? Psychology researcher Abigail Marsh studies the motivations of people who do extremely altruistic acts, like donating a kidney to a complete stranger. Are their brains just different?

Why some people are more altruistic than others

Some people willingly risk their lives or donate kidneys to help total strangers, challenging the belief that humans are fundamentally selfish. Brain studies reveal that extraordinary altruists have amygdalas that are larger and more sensitive to others’ distress than average. These individuals show humility and see no one as less deserving of compassion, extending care far beyond family or friends. As societies grow wealthier, acts of kindness toward strangers are becoming more common, suggesting that compassion can expand across wider circles.