How to identify psychopaths VS. extraordinary altruists (+ 2 tests to ID yourself) | Abigail Marsh
In the video titled “How to Identify Psychopaths VS. Extraordinary Altruists” with Abigail Marsh, viewers are taken on a deep dive into the world of psychopathy and extreme altruism. Abigail Marsh, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Georgetown University, uncovers the truths behind these two polar opposite traits in humans.
Psychopathy, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting a small percentage of people, is characterized by callousness, impulsivity, and fearlessness. Marsh explains how individuals with psychopathy lack empathy and see others as mere objects to be exploited for their own gain. On the other end of the spectrum are extraordinary altruists, who exhibit humility, belief in the goodness of others, and high levels of empathy. These individuals go out of their way to help others, even at personal risk.
Marsh shares insights on how global trends show an increase in acts of generosity, proving that individuals can change their levels of altruism. She encourages viewers to take online tests like the TriPM and HEXACO to gauge their own levels of altruism. Ultimately, Marsh emphasizes the power of awareness and action in building a more caring and helpful society for ourselves and future generations.
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Video Transcript
Author Video Description
Are humans naturally selfless? Psychologist Abigail Marsh is using studies on psychopathy and altruism to find out.
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Abigail Marsh, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Georgetown University, explains how the world is impacted by those with psychopathy, and, additionally, those who practice extreme altruism.
Psychopathy, she says, is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting a small percentage of people, who are different from a very early age due to their unique brain development. Conversely, she talks about people who are exceptionally altruistic—those who go out of their way to help others, often at great personal risk. These individuals are humble, believe in the goodness of others, and are highly empathetic.
She concludes by explaining that acts of generosity have been increasing on a global scale, and how these trends have proven that it is possible for individuals to change their own natural levels of altruism. Through awareness and action, we can build a more caring and helpful society for ourselves and generations to come.
If you’re curious about your own levels of altruism, Marsh suggests using online tests like the TriPM or HEXACO personality tests.
The TriPM test:
The HEXACO test: https://survey.ucalgary.ca/jfe/form/SV_0icFBjWwyHvJOfA
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About Abigail Marsh:
Abigail Marsh is a Professor in the Department of Psychology and the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program at Georgetown University. She received her PhD in Social Psychology from Harvard University in 2004.
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Video “How to identify psychopaths VS. extraordinary altruists (+ 2 tests to ID yourself) | Abigail Marsh” was uploaded on 06/21/2024 to Youtube Channel Big Think