Paul Zak on TED: The Connection Between Hugs and Philanthropy
Submitted by Abigail on November 10, 2011
New to the TED site last week: Neuroeconomist Paul Zak uses his talk on the hormone oxytocin to explore the biological impulse behind empathy, morality, and generosity. Providing an overview of his lab activities, as well as charming evidence gathered in the field (at a wedding, for instance), Zak explains the social benefits of a population flush with oxytocin-rich individuals. He also addresses the factors inhibiting production of the hormone in individuals, offering a not-corny-in-context prescription: eight hugs a day.