The Science of Kindness: Michael Todd Fink on Compassion and Beauty
Survival of the kindest is what keeps civilization growing, expanding and remaining healthy or becoming healthier.
Have you ever wondered if kindness could actually make someone more attractive? In this episode of 'Kind Mind', Michael Todd Fink explores the fascinating intersection of compassion, psychology, and physical appearance. Drawing from a recent social psychology study, Michael discusses how our perception of someone's attractiveness can change based on what we know about their personality. Participants who were told positive traits about strangers rated them as more attractive than those who were given negative or no information at all.
This episode doesn't just stop at looks; it dives into the deeper impact of kindness on our brains and well-being. Michael explains how kindness can create a virtuous cycle—making us happier and more inclined to continue being kind. But here's the kicker: the intention behind your kindness matters. Acts done for selfish reasons don't yield the same benefits as those done altruistically.
Alongside these insights, Michael also touches on the ethics of non-violence and eating meat, as well as the healing power of music. Whether you're interested in the science behind compassion or looking for practical ways to cultivate kindness in your life, this episode offers a wealth of thought-provoking ideas. Tune in and discover how being kind can transform not just your life, but the world around you.