Altruism
Will Autonomous Vehicles Make Us Better People?
Research finds that programming driverless cars ahead of time inspires a person to move away from egocentric decision-making.
Why Superman May Inspire Altruistic Behavior
It's a bird! It's a plane! It's a man making a charitable donation!
Altruists Make More Money and Have More Kids
There's more evidence that selfishness is self-defeating.
Residents of Racially Diverse Neighborhoods Are More Likely to Help Others
This reflects the fact they are more prone to identify with all of humanity.
Go Ahead, Re-Gift
Research shows the act of re-gifting bothers the re-gifter more than it does anyone else.
One Perk of Being Poor: Greater Feelings of Awe
New research finds people on different ends of the economic spectrum find happiness in different ways.
Anthropomorphized Animals Fail to Teach Altruism
Kids relate better to stories with human characters.
Need Help? Call an Arts Lover
British researchers find a strong link between cultural engagement and participating in activities that benefit the community.
Are Humans Altruistic, or Selfish? Context Is Key
New research suggests we will forgo benefits to help others, but are much less willing to suffer harm.
Don't Expect 'Do-Gooder' Corporations to Save the World
B Lab markets their do-gooder stamp of approval as a sign of global citizenship and transparency. In fact, it's a half-measure signifying nothing.
Handling Money Decreases Helpful Behavior
New research shows touching money instills a market-oriented state of mind, even in kids too young to really understand currency.
Altruistic Men Are More Attractive to Women
In a new study, altruism trumps good looks, although the combination of both is the most desirable of all.
Is Religion Hazardous to Your Child's Moral Health?
A study finds children raised in religious households are less altruistic than those raised in non-religious families.
Choosing Altruism
Altruism has stumped researchers for years, but a new study finds that it may be as simple as choosing to be generous.
The Evolution of Spite
A new theory detailing why people engage in racist and spiteful behavior highlights how we act most altruistically toward those similar to ourselves. At a time when racial discrimination at the hands of law enforcement is so prevalent, could understanding the scientific underpinnings of such feelings prevent similar conduct in the future?
The Power of Awe
Research suggests feelings of veneration and wonder can induce humility and concern for others.
From Humbug! to Humble: The Power of the Scrooge Effect
A new study finds thoughts of our mortality can make us more generous.
The Case for Compensating Kidney Donors
Our current system is failing dramatically because altruism isn’t a sufficiently motivating force to give up an organ. We need to test incentives, to reward people who are willing to save the life of a stranger through donation.
In Times of Corporate Troubles, Altruism Helps
Research shows that philanthropy is a valuable strategy when big companies like HSBC get into trouble.
We Prefer Merlot With a Hint of Altruism
New research finds consumers like products more if the companies that produced them are perceived as morally good.
Altruism Is Hot
German researchers find singles who spend their free time helping friends or neighbors are more likely to be in a relationship one year later.
Be a Better Person. Take a Walk in the Park
New research from France finds strangers are more helpful if they’ve just strolled through a natural environment.
Your Kindness Is Good for You
Why we could all use a little more self-examination.
Study: TV, Movies Can Inspire Altruism
But new research suggests it only occurs when people reflect upon what they’ve been watching.