TED: How to let go of being a "good" person -- and become a better person | Dolly Chugh

The video explores the concept of moral identity and how our attachment to being seen as a 'good person' can hinder personal growth. It introduces the ideas of bounded rationality and bounded ethicality, explaining how our brains rely on shortcuts that can lead to unconscious biases and ethical mistakes. The speaker suggests that defensiveness often prevents us from learning from our mistakes. Instead of striving to be a 'good person,' the speaker advocates for becoming a 'good-ish person,' who acknowledges and learns from mistakes, allowing for personal growth and ethical improvement.

Why do people often become defensive when their moral identity is challenged?

• They want to protect their self-image as a good person.

• They are unsure of their own beliefs.

• They are afraid of being judged by others.

• They lack confidence in their moral values.

What is the main idea behind bounded rationality?

• The brain can easily handle complex tasks.

• The brain processes all information consciously.

• The brain uses shortcuts due to limited resources.

• The brain has unlimited processing power.

How does bounded ethicality affect decision-making?

• It ensures ethical behavior in all situations.

• It causes decisions to be influenced by biases.

• It eliminates unconscious biases.

• It leads to more rational decisions.

What is an example of unconscious bias mentioned in the talk?

• Deciding on a product launch without data.

• Preferring one brand over another.

• Choosing a cereal based on its packaging.

• Associating men more with science than women.

What is a common reaction when people make ethical mistakes?

• They immediately apologize.

• They ignore the mistake completely.

• They seek advice from others.

• They often explain away their mistakes.

How does the speaker suggest we approach ethical mistakes?

• By ignoring them to maintain self-esteem.

• By learning from them to improve behavior.

• By blaming others for the mistakes.

• By avoiding situations where mistakes can occur.

What does the speaker mean by being a 'good-ish' person?

• Someone who is perfect in all aspects.

• Someone who learns from their mistakes.

• Someone who never makes mistakes.

• Someone who avoids ethical challenges.

Why is it important to embrace vulnerability according to the speaker?

• It helps in avoiding mistakes.

• It allows for personal growth and learning.

• It makes others perceive you as strong.

• It prevents any form of criticism.

What is the speaker's view on the 'either-or' definition of a good person?

• It allows for personal growth.

• It is too rigid and limits improvement.

• It encourages ethical behavior.

• It is the best way to define morality.

How does the speaker suggest we treat the concept of being a good person?

• As a standard that everyone naturally meets.

• As something that should be ignored.

• As a skill that can be developed over time.

• As a fixed trait that cannot change.