Written by Sneh Lahurikar
Edited by Anjini Illustrated by Shravan Bakkiyaraj
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You know that warm, fuzzy feeling when you hold the door for someone or lend a hand? Well, it's not just courtesy; there's a fascinating science behind it. Let's dive into the intricate world of kindness, where self-interest and altruism team up, creating a phenomenon known as the Helper's High.
The Helper's High isn't just a catchy phrase – it's a real thing. When you do something good, your brain lights up like a Christmas tree, releasing oxytocin and dopamine, the brain's happy chemicals. It's like a built-in reward system, giving you a natural high. (Source: Scientific American)
Consider this: You help a friend with a problem, and suddenly, you're riding the wave of the Helper's High. You're hooked when your brain throws a party, releasing those feel-good chemicals. It's a cycle of kindness and reward, a loop that makes you want to keep spreading those good vibes.
Now, let's talk about the brain's pleasure centres, the maestros orchestrating this symphony of good vibes. Kind acts activate these centres, creating a fascinating positive feedback loop. It's not just about feeling good at the moment; it's about the brain saying, "Hey, we nailed that kindness thing – let's do it again!" (Source: Harvard Health Blog)
But here's the cool part – the ripple effect of self-interest. Acknowledging that kindness has a selfish side sets off a ripple effect. Your good vibes spread through social circles, creating a culture of positivity. It's like kindness contagion, where everyone catches the bug and starts spreading the love.
Effective altruism is the superhero move of kindness. It's not just doing good; it's doing good with strategy. Effective altruism aligns perfectly with our exploration of kindness, recognising the role of self-interest and directing it toward maximum positive impact. (Source: The Life You Can Save)
So, why spill the beans about kindness being a tad selfish? It's not about stealing its thunder; it's about making kindness relatable. No more unattainable virtue – it's a human thing. Recognizing the self-serving aspect of kindness breaks down scepticism and fear, making it accessible to everyone.
In a nutshell, kindness isn't a one-size-fits-all virtue. It's a dance between self-interest and benevolence, orchestrated by the brain's pleasure centres. The blend of neuroscience, psychology, and social dynamics paints a nuanced picture. By embracing the selfish side of kindness and understanding the Helper's High, we unravel its effectiveness and set the stage for intentional and impactful acts of goodwill.
Refreshing read!