Making Sense with Sam Harris #196 — The Science of Happiness
Apr 10, 2020
Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor and host of the Happiness Lab podcast, dives into the scientific study of happiness. She discusses how social connections can enhance well-being and the impacts of technology on our relationships. Santos also explores the differences between the experiencing self and the remembered self, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and resilience. The conversation touches on the joy of altruism and the misconception that achieving goals leads to lasting happiness, revealing deeper insights into desire and fulfillment.
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Santos's Personal Shift
- Laurie Santos, despite not being very social with strangers, acknowledges the data supporting its positive impact.
- She mentions Nick Epley's work, highlighting the misconception that talking to strangers will be negative.
Advice for Introverts
- If you're an introvert, try small interactions with strangers and observe how it feels.
- The science suggests it will be more positive than anticipated.
Smartphones and Isolation
- Smartphones have created face-to-face isolation, akin to an involuntary psychological experiment.
- This default setting of isolation is further amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic.