TED: You don't actually know what your future self wants | Shankar Vedantam

The transcript discusses the concept of personal change over time, using personal anecdotes and philosophical ideas like the Ship of Theseus. It highlights the illusion of continuity, where people underestimate how much they will change in the future. The story of John and Stephanie Rinker illustrates how perspectives can shift dramatically over time. The speaker offers advice on embracing change by staying curious, practicing humility, and being brave.

What was the narrator's childhood passion that he no longer considers himself a fan of?

• Cricket

• Soccer

• Basketball

• Tennis

What major global event does the narrator mention as having changed people's perspectives in recent years?

• The financial crisis

• The rise of social media

• The climate change movement

• The COVID pandemic

What does the narrator suggest is a common illusion about our future selves?

• We will become more athletic

• We will remain the same

• We will become more famous

• We will become less intelligent

What illness was Stephanie Rinker diagnosed with?

• Cancer

• Parkinson's disease

• ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)

• Multiple sclerosis

What did Stephanie Rinker initially express about her wishes if she were to become terminally ill?

• She wanted to try experimental treatments

• She wanted to avoid prolonging her suffering

• She wanted to be put on a ventilator

• She wanted to travel the world

What philosophical concept is used to illustrate human change over time?

• The Ship of Theseus

• The Allegory of the Cave

• The Veil of Ignorance

• The Trolley Problem

What does the Ship of Theseus metaphor suggest about identity?

• Identity is fixed and unchanging

• Identity is solely based on physical appearance

• Identity can change over time as parts are replaced

• Identity is determined by external factors

According to the narrator, what should we do to actively shape our future selves?

• Rely on others to shape us

• Avoid change

• Focus only on career

• Be the curator and architect of our future self

What is one of the key pieces of advice given by the narrator for dealing with future changes?

• Ignore others' opinions

• Stick to routine

• Avoid risks

• Stay curious

What does the narrator suggest about the capacity of our future selves?

• They will be less intelligent

• They will be exactly the same as today

• They will have new strengths and wisdom

• They will be weaker and less capable