Caring What You're Sharing

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

10/15/19 • 38 min

Sharing a good experience with another human deepens our enjoyment of the moment... but only if we abide by certain rules. Dr Laurie Santos shows us how we often get 'sharing' wrong and explains how we can all derive more happiness from ice cream, sunsets and a night in front of the TV.

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10/15/19 • 38 min

6 Listeners

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos - Caring What You're Sharing

Transcript Summary

In this episode titled "Caring What You're Sharing," we uncover the fascinating power of shared experiences and how they can impact our happiness and connections with others. From William Henry Fox Talbot's invention of photography to Kevin Systrom's launch of Instagram, we explore our innate urge to share and the consequences it can have on our well-being. Psychologist Mike Thomasello's research reveals that even babies seek to share experiences with their parents. Cornell University's Erica Boothby conducted a chocolate tasting experiment, demonstrating how shared experiences can enhance positive moments and foster empathy. The Museum of Ice Cream presents a unique opportunity to connect with others without the interference of phones. While taking photos can enhance visual memory, it can hinder non-visual memory and diminish the overall experience. Sharing photos on social media also diminishes the positive effects of capturing the moment. The museum is reimagining its design to discourage Instagram posts and promote a phone-free environment. By embracing shared experiences in the present moment, we can bolster happiness and find solace in difficult times. The Museum of Ice Cream, with its surreal sensory experience and interactive exhibits, aims to bring people together through a shared love of ice cream. Started as a passion project by Mary Ellis and her co-founder, the museum has gained popularity among celebrities and influencers, attracting millions of visitors worldwide. Mary Ellis takes pride in the social aspect of the museum as it enables people to connect and form new encounters. Don't miss out on this episode that delves into the power of shared experiences and the importance of disconnecting to truly connect with others.

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:15.435

Pushkin. It's October fifth, eighteen thirty three. An inventor, William Henry fox Talbot is annoyed. After months of delays, Fox Talbot was finally able to take his new bride on their long awaited honeymoon to the beautiful shores of Lake Como, one of the prettiest vacation spots in Italy. Think shimmering blue waters, statue filled gardens. Everyone from Lord Byron to George Clooney has vacation there, and that's why Fox Talbot was annoyed, bec

Caring What You're Sharing Top Questions Answered

How does the Museum of Ice Cream encourage people to connect with each other?

The Museum of Ice Cream creates visually stimulating exhibits to encourage people to look up from their phones and connect with each other.

Does the popularity of Instagram and sharing experiences lead to phone dependence at the museum?

Yes, the popularity of Instagram and the urge to share experiences has led to a reliance on phones at the museum.

Can taking photos enhance visual memory?

Yes, taking photos can enhance visual memory.

Does sharing photos on social media decrease enjoyment and distract from the present moment?

Yes, sharing photos on social media decreases enjoyment and distracts from the present moment.

What attempts have been made to combat phone dependence at the museum?

Redesigning the museum to discourage phone use and implementing hands-free eating have been attempted to combat phone dependence.

Are sharing experiences and documenting them individually beneficial?

Yes, studies show that sharing experiences and documenting them are individually beneficial.

Is it recommended to share experiences with others in the moment rather than focusing on capturing the perfect photo for social media?

Yes, to be happier, it is recommended to share experiences with others in the moment rather than focusing on capturing the perfect photo for social media.