What if the key to understanding ourselves lies in the stories we tell?
Every narrative we weave not only shapes our identities but also influences our connections with others. The intricate dance of human psychology reveals that our minds are not just isolated chambers; they are vibrant ecosystems of thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
Over the years, UBC Psychology faculty have taken to the TED Talks stage to share groundbreaking insights that challenge conventional wisdom. With their talks attracting millions of views, these thought leaders explore the profound ways our mental landscapes intersect with our daily lives, our communities, and the world at large. From unraveling the complexities of resilience to redefining what it means to lead a fulfilling life, their ideas spark crucial conversations that can transform how we understand ourselves and each other.
Dr. Elizabeth Dunn: Helping others makes us happier — but it matters how we do it
Dr. Elizabeth Dunn, a professor in UBC’s department of psychology, explores the secrets to achieving happiness in a world where it often feels elusive. In a TED Talk, she highlights that the way we donate money significantly impacts our happiness, emphasizing that simply contributing to a charity isn’t always enough. According to Dunn, envisioning exactly how your donation will make a tangible difference is key to experiencing greater joy from giving.
Dr. Azim Shariff: Does working hard really make you a good person?
Dr. Azim Shariff, a Canada 150 Research Chair and social psychologist in UBC’s department of psychology, investigates how our often-ancient moral intuitions shape and respond to cultural institutions and technologies in the modern world. In a TED Talk, he discusses our tendency to value displays of effort and the impact that has on society.
Dr. Jiaying Zhao: How to feng shui your fridge — and other climate hacks
Dr. Jiaying Zhao, a behavioural scientist in UBC’s department of psychology and Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, is working to challenge the prevailing doom-and-gloom narrative around the climate crisis. Instead of focusing on sacrifice and loss, Dr. Zhao emphasizes that climate action and happiness can coexist, offering a more hopeful and empowering perspective. In a TED Talk, she explains practical ways to integrate sustainable behaviours into daily life without giving up simple pleasures and conveniences.
By Eliza Talwani
