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cover of episode 84. Quick Thinks: How Others Define Us

84. Quick Thinks: How Others Define Us

2023/4/4
logo of podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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Brian Lowery discusses the concept of the 'self' as a social construction, created by relationships and social interactions, and how this understanding challenges traditional notions of freedom.

Shownotes Transcript

“The self is incompatible with freedom, the way most people understand it, because the self is a constraint,” says social psychologist and professor of organizational behavior Brian Lowery). “The ‘you’ you’re talking about is actually the relationships you have, the social interactions you have and the cultural context you exist in."

In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Lowery sits down with podcast host and lecturer in strategic communications Matt Abrahams to talk about his new book, Selfless: The Social Creation of You). Lowery argues that there is no essential “self” — our selves are creations of those we interact with — exploring what that means for who we can be and who we allow others to be. He also shares research on how asking deeply personal questions can be a tool for deepening relationships. 

Brian Lowery is the co-director of the Stanford Institute on Race) and the host of the podcast, Know What You See. )

Resources:

https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/faculty-research/faculty/brian-lowery

Selfless: The Social Creation of "You" by Brian Lowery)

Know What You See Podcast)

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