Lecture | Ken Carter | The Psychology of Thrill Seekers

Center for Mind, Brain, and Culture

Most of us crave new experiences and sensations. Whether it's our attraction to that new burger place or the latest gadget, newness tugs at us. But what about those who can't seem to get enough? They jump out of planes, climb skyscrapers, and will eat anything (even poisonous pufferfish)… Prompting others to ask 'what's wrong' with them. These are high sensation-seekers and they crave intense experiences, despite physical, or social risk. They don't have a death wish, but seemingly a need for an adrenaline rush, no matter what. In this talk, Dr. Carter explores the lifestyle, psychology, and neuroscience behind adrenaline junkies and daredevils. This tendency, or compulsion, has a role in our culture, but where is the line between healthy and unhealthy thrill-seeking and what can we all learn from thrill seekers?

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Intro Music: Small Acts of Devotion feat. Ashkay-Naresh