TED: The surprising science of happiness | Dan Gilbert

The video explores the rapid evolution of the human brain, focusing on the prefrontal cortex's role as an experience simulator. It discusses the concept of impact bias, where people misjudge the emotional impact of future events. The idea of synthetic happiness is introduced, highlighting how humans can adapt to circumstances and find happiness. Experiments demonstrate how people synthesize happiness, even without awareness. The video concludes with philosophical insights on happiness and human perception, emphasizing the importance of understanding our psychological immune system.

What significant development in the human brain is highlighted as an experience simulator?

• Parietal lobe

• Prefrontal cortex

• Occipital lobe

• Temporal lobe

What is the term used to describe the tendency to overestimate the impact of future events on our happiness?

• Hindsight bias

• Confirmation bias

• Impact bias

• Cognitive dissonance

According to the lecture, how do lottery winners and paraplegics compare in terms of happiness after a year?

• Both are equally happy

• Neither are happy

• Lottery winners are much happier

• Paraplegics are much happier

Which of the following is NOT an example of someone synthesizing happiness?

• A person who missed a business opportunity and feels content

• A person who spent years in prison and has no regrets

• A person who lost wealth and feels better off

• A person who won the lottery and feels unhappy

What is the main difference between natural and synthetic happiness?

• Synthetic happiness is temporary

• Natural happiness comes from getting what we want

• Synthetic happiness is less real

• Natural happiness is more enduring

What is the psychological immune system's role in happiness?

• It enhances memory retention

• It increases intelligence

• It helps synthesize happiness

• It prevents negative emotions

In the experiment with amnesiac patients, what was the surprising result regarding their preferences?

• They showed no preference change

• They preferred the print they didn't own

• They liked the print they owned more, despite not remembering owning it

• They disliked all prints equally

What does the experiment with Harvard students reveal about decision-making and happiness?

• People are happier with reversible decisions

• Irreversible decisions lead to greater satisfaction

• Having more choices always increases happiness

• Students preferred reversible decisions but were less satisfied

Why might freedom to change one's mind be detrimental to synthetic happiness?

• It reduces the need for adaptation

• It allows for more options

• It enhances decision-making skills

• It leads to constant dissatisfaction

What lesson does the lecture suggest about our longings and worries?

• They are always justified

• They are often exaggerated

• They should be ignored

• They are the same for everyone