PBS has a super cute video on altruism, which is part of an online series entitled Human Spark. In the video, toddlers were tested on helping adults in an experiment designed to see if humans are naturally altruistic. Check out the full video clip HERE.
While I enjoyed the video (again, SUPER cute), I couldn't help but think the experiment itself was a bit ridiculous. For one thing, toddlers are wired to help others. Erikson's Stages of Development classifies the toddler age as "Automomy vs. Shame," which means they are working on building independence as well as self-esteem. Helping an adult would be a sure way to experience independence and build confidence.
What they should have done in the experiment is distract the toddler with something they truly wanted and then see if they would stop what they were doing to help the adult. That would be a truly spontaneous act of altruism.
I also think it would be more interesting to test this theory on toddlers from different backgrounds. I wonder if children who grow up in a more selfish or abusive family would be so eager to help? I'd like to think so.. food for thought..
That being said, the message in this video is mega badass. I love the idea that we are wired to be altruistic. It speaks to the idea that no one is born evil; it is a learned trait. Aside from severe psychological disorders of course, I believe this is true.
While I enjoyed the video (again, SUPER cute), I couldn't help but think the experiment itself was a bit ridiculous. For one thing, toddlers are wired to help others. Erikson's Stages of Development classifies the toddler age as "Automomy vs. Shame," which means they are working on building independence as well as self-esteem. Helping an adult would be a sure way to experience independence and build confidence.
What they should have done in the experiment is distract the toddler with something they truly wanted and then see if they would stop what they were doing to help the adult. That would be a truly spontaneous act of altruism.
I also think it would be more interesting to test this theory on toddlers from different backgrounds. I wonder if children who grow up in a more selfish or abusive family would be so eager to help? I'd like to think so.. food for thought..
That being said, the message in this video is mega badass. I love the idea that we are wired to be altruistic. It speaks to the idea that no one is born evil; it is a learned trait. Aside from severe psychological disorders of course, I believe this is true.
Faith in humanity restored!
Thanks, super cute, spontaneously helpful toddlers.
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