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Published May 7, 2023

How Can We Break Our Addiction to Contempt? | Freakonomics Radio | Episode 478

Arthur Brooks explores the transformative power of love to combat political polarization, delving into how media and economic factors fuel division while offering strategies to replace contempt with gratitude and positive interactions.
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  • Contempt Psychology

    The psychology of contempt reveals its complexity compared to basic emotions like anger. explains that contempt is a cold emotion, a mix of anger and disgust, which dehumanizes its target 1. Unlike anger, which can be self-limiting, contempt is habitual and pervasive, often unnoticed by those who exhibit it. notes, "Contempt is going to drive love out of your life," highlighting its destructive impact on personal happiness 2.

       

    Coping Strategies

    Coping mechanisms for contempt involve embracing courage and gratitude. suggests confronting contempt with love and positivity, even if it means losing followers on platforms like Twitter 3. He advises carrying a "five to one list" to counter negative thoughts with positive affirmations 4. emphasizes, "Happiness is love. Full stop," underscoring the importance of love in overcoming contempt 2.