The Man Who Invented Happiness Science: Marty Seligman
The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos05/01/23 • 41 min
When Marty Seligman started his long scientific career, psychologists concentrated on studying "misery and suffering" and what made people sad. But Marty wanted to discover what made happy people, well, happy. His research laid the foundations of "positive psychology" and the happiness science you hear week after week in this podcast.
Dr Laurie Santos talks to Professor Seligman about his decades of research; the power of optimism; and how he became less of a "grouch" to improve his own personal happiness.
Marty's latest book, TOMORROWMIND: Thriving At Work – Now and in an Uncertain Future, is OUT NOW.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
05/01/23 • 41 min
2 Listeners
The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos - The Man Who Invented Happiness Science: Marty Seligman
Transcript
Pushkin. I always try to book guests for this show that I know you'll love, people who I think really have something to say about the science of happiness. Some guests have important lived experiences, giving them valuable well being insights to share. Other guests are leading researchers in my field, people who've gathered exciting data about what actually does make us feel happier. Let's go with zoom. I think the zoom is sounding fine, so I thi
The Man Who Invented Happiness Science: Marty Seligman Top Questions Answered
Who is Marty Seligman?
Marty Seligman is a leading researcher in the field of positive psychology and the inventor of positive psychology. He is also a clinical psychologist and an influential figure in the field.
What did Marty Seligman discover about optimistic people?
Marty Seligman discovered that optimistic people were more resilient and did not exhibit learned helplessness, which is a response to uncontrollable events.
What does positive psychology focus on?
Positive psychology focuses on measuring and building PERMA: Positive emotion, Engagement, Good relationships, Mattering, and Accomplishment.
What are the benefits of using character strengths?
Using character strengths leads to a better life and increased happiness, according to Marty Seligman.
How can strengths be applied to tasks that are not enjoyable?
Marty Seligman encourages people to identify their strengths using the VIA Character Strengths test and apply them to tasks they don't enjoy.
What is resilience in the context of positive psychology?
Resilience, in the context of positive psychology, refers to bouncing back from defeat and returning to normal functioning. It is an important aspect of positive psychology.
What is post-traumatic growth?
Post-traumatic growth refers to the positive psychological changes that can occur after experiencing a traumatic event. Marty Seligman is particularly interested in this concept.
What is the impact of optimism on life expectancy?
Optimism adds 6-8 years to life expectancy, while pessimism has a negative impact on life expectancy, according to Marty Seligman.
What does Marty Seligman discuss in his book "Tomorrow Mind"?
Marty Seligman's book "Tomorrow Mind" discusses the skills needed for success and happiness at work.
When will The Happiness Lab be back with live episodes?
The Happiness Lab will be back with live episodes recorded in front of an audience.
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