Sep 3, 2024
Episode: 218: Exploring Hopeful Skepticism with Dr. Jamil Zaki
📌Make sure to check out Dr. Zakis’ book “Hope for
Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness”
https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Cynics-Surprising-Science-Goodness/dp/153874306X
👉In this episode of the Drama-Free, Healthy Living
Podcast, host Jess Cording interviews Dr. Jamil Zaki, a Stanford
University psychology professor and director of the Stanford Social
Neuroscience Lab. Dr. Zaki, author of 'Hope for Cynics', shares his
insights into empathy, the differences between cynicism and
skepticism, and the impacts of these mindsets on our lives.
They discuss the negative effects of cynicism, the role of media in
shaping our perceptions, and introduce the concept of hopeful
skepticism—a balanced approach to understanding the world. They
also delve into tribal cynicism, the importance of human
connections, and practical steps to foster positive change.
The episode concludes with Dr. Zaki's views on healthy living,
focusing on psychological health through love and meaningful
work.
🖋️ Some key points
(00:38) Exploring Cynicism and Skepticism
(02:24) Dr. Zaki's Background and Inspiration
(07:07) Understanding Hopeful Skepticism
(14:23) Cynicism in Society and Media Influence
(27:39) Introduction to Social Shark Attacks
(29:25) Overcoming Social Anxiety
(31:03) Challenging Cynical Assumptions
(33:19) Understanding Tribal Cynicism
(38:23) Hope vs. Optimism
(42:02) Practicing Hopeful Skepticism
(47:29) Final Thoughts and Healthy Living
👉 Dr.Zaki BIO
Dr. Jamil Zaki is a professor of psychology at Stanford University and the director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab. He trained at Columbia and Harvard, studying empathy and kindness in the human brain. He is interested in how we can learn to connect better.
🌎 Connect with Dr Jamil Zaki
LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamil-zaki-b0b4a9192
Twitter/X https://x.com/zakijam
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/warforkindness/
🎤 Podcast post-production by Seamless
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