Are We Inherently Good?

The video explores the concept of infants as blank slates and challenges this notion with research suggesting innate altruism and empathy. It discusses altruism as a behavior that may not offer personal rewards but is driven by empathy. Studies show infants prefer helpful behavior, indicating an early understanding of social benefits. Reciprocal interactions enhance helping behavior in children, suggesting relationships influence altruism. Social norms and internalized morals further shape altruistic tendencies, highlighting the importance of social connections in maintaining altruistic behavior.

What is the term used to describe helping behavior that offers no personal reward?

• Altruism

• Compassion

• Empathy

• Sympathy

According to the 2017 study, what did infants prefer when shown videos of characters interacting?

• Characters that ignored aggression

• Characters that intervened to stop aggression

• Characters that were colorful

• Characters that were silent

What age group was involved in the 2014 study on reciprocal play and helping behavior?

• Infants under six months

• Preschoolers aged one to two years

• Teenagers aged 13 to 15 years

• Adults over 18 years

What factor was found to increase the likelihood of preschoolers helping others in the 2014 study?

• Listening to music

• Engaging in reciprocal play

• Watching educational videos

• Playing alone

How do researchers believe social norms and morals affect our altruistic behavior as we grow?

• They diminish our altruistic tendencies

• They enhance and shape our readiness to help

• They have no effect on altruism

• They make us more selfish