Jordan Peterson ~ The Science Of Disgust

Summary

The transcript delves into the psychology of disgust and its evolutionary significance in humans compared to animals. It explores how disgust sensitivity influences moral judgment, particularly in orderly individuals, who tend to think in black-and-white terms. The discussion connects conscientiousness with the challenges of unemployment and the misunderstanding of effort versus outcome. It also examines the complexities of sexual attraction and disgust, highlighting the protective role of disgust against disease transmission. Ultimately, the transcript addresses the advantages and drawbacks of hierarchies versus egalitarianism in society, suggesting that people may be more comfortable within structured systems than they realize.

Takeaways

• 😀 Splatter films evoke disgust and horror, combining elements of fear and repulsion.
• 😀 Humans exhibit a well-developed disgust sensitivity, unlike many animals, which tend to be less discerning about what they consume.
• 😀 Disgust is linked to specific facial expressions that signal repulsion, like closing the eyes and nose.
• 😀 Individuals with high disgust sensitivity often engage in black-and-white moral thinking, viewing situations in absolutes.
• 😀 Conscientious individuals may struggle with unemployment due to their rigid belief systems and high standards for themselves and others.
• 😀 Hard work increases the likelihood of success, but it doesn't guarantee results, highlighting the importance of flexibility in thinking.
• 😀 Orderliness is associated with conservatism, where high orderliness and low openness to experience can influence political beliefs.
• 😀 People often believe their political preferences are rational choices, but underlying temperament plays a significant role in shaping these views.
• 😀 Disgust serves as a biological protective mechanism, especially concerning sexual behavior and the risk of disease transmission.
• 😀 Hierarchies can provide structure and responsibility, making people more comfortable than they may realize, even in liberal contexts.

Q & A

What role does disgust play in human emotions and behavior?

Disgust functions as an evolutionary mechanism, helping humans avoid harmful substances and situations. It is closely linked to feelings of horror and can influence moral judgments and sensitivities.

How does the concept of disgust differ between humans and animals?

While humans exhibit distinct disgust reactions and are often picky about food and cleanliness, animals like dogs do not show the same level of disgust. They tend to have a broader acceptance of various smells and tastes.

What facial expressions are associated with feelings of disgust?

Disgust is often expressed through facial expressions that include closing the eyes and nose, indicating an instinctual repulsion from what is perceived as unpleasant.

How does sensitivity to disgust correlate with moral thinking?

Individuals who are more sensitive to disgust often exhibit black-and-white thinking, categorizing behaviors and people as either good or bad without recognizing nuances. This is particularly evident in certain mental health conditions like anorexia.

Why do conscientious people struggle when faced with unemployment?

Conscientious individuals may hold rigid beliefs about effort and success, leading them to view unemployment as a personal failing. Their judgmental nature can make it difficult for them to empathize with others in similar situations.

How do temperament and political beliefs relate?

A person's temperament can significantly influence their political beliefs. For example, those who value orderliness may lean towards conservative views, while those who prioritize care and harm may align more with liberal ideologies.

What is the significance of purity in human behavior?

Purity concerns are rooted in the need for hygiene and safety. Maintaining cleanliness helps prevent diseases and health risks, which underscores the importance of purity in social and personal contexts.

How can excessive sensitivity to disgust impact mental health?

Individuals who are excessively sensitive to disgust may develop aversions to their own bodies or normal bodily functions, leading to conditions like anorexia where they cannot tolerate their own physicality.

What are the psychological implications of sexual attraction and disgust?

The interplay between sexual attraction and disgust is complex, as it serves a biological purpose in preventing sexually transmitted diseases while also creating feelings of guilt and shame in certain contexts.

Why do people tend to prefer hierarchical structures over egalitarian ones?

Hierarchical structures provide clear responsibilities and authority, reducing conflict and confusion that often arise in egalitarian settings where everyone has an equal say, leading to prolonged debates without resolution.