Anyone can be an altruist

About this episode

Cristina Quinn explores the nature of altruism with psychologist Abigail Marsh, discussing how altruists think and how others can cultivate altruistic behaviors.

What’s really going on inside the brain of an altruist? Why do altruists care so much more for a stranger who needs help? Why are they so willing to give away a kidney? In this episode, host Cristina Quinn explores what it means to be an altruist with Abigail Marsh, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Georgetown University. Together, they break down how altruists view their own actions and how others can become more altruistic too. Marsh offers insight into what scientists know about altruists and shares surprising findings from her own research. She also tells us how you can build the muscle of giving more in simple steps that fit your lifestyle. Read more about Marsh’s work on altruism here .  Also, read Washington Post Brain Matters columnist Richard Sima’s story on how doing good is good for you . Subscribe to The Washington Post or connect your subscription in Apple Podcasts .

People in this episode

Host: Cristina Quinn

Guest: Abigail Marsh

Topics covered

• altruism
• psychology
• neuroscience
• human behavior
• giving

Keywords

• altruism
• psychology
• neuroscience
• giving
• human behavior

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Georgetown University, The Washington Post

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