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Selfishness: a scientific discovery reveals its physical origin

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The Stastoscope of Radio Lac is interested in the origin of egotism, based on a study conducted by the University of Düsseldorf in collaboration with scientists from South Africa and Switzerland. Unlike the common belief that egotism is solely the result of upbringing or childhood, this research reveals a physical peculiarity in the brains of egotistical individuals, suggesting a genetic factor. This specific cerebral functioning can lead to egotistical behavior or, conversely, promote great generosity. This discovery enhances our understanding of brain mechanisms and character traits, encouraging us to feel less guilty if we consider ourselves egotistical.

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The Stastoscope. We are talking about egotism today, in the study of the day, with research coming from Germany, specifically from the University of Düsseldorf. In your opinion, Carole, I pose the question to you and you can probably guess that there will be a more precise answer in a few moments, but where does egotism come from?

Carole thinks that it may come from our childhood, our education, what we were taught when we were little, such as sharing and so on. She suggests that if it is not instilled in a child, they may be more egotistical.

The presenter admits that he thought exactly the same thing: that egotism was due to upbringing, to what is more generally called character. Well no! These scientists from the University of Düsseldorf have just put their finger on something, a physical peculiarity specific to egotists.

It is not something that can be seen. The presenter jokes about whether egotists have big ears. It turns out they don’t. It is linked to a part of our brain that has a particular functioning. There may even be a genetic factor involved. This functioning can lead to either a person’s egotism or, on the contrary, a very social, very generous behavior.

Carole then wonders: since she has two children, one egotistical and the other not at all, she was convinced that the first was egotistical because she was alone for five years. But in fact, not at all.

The presenter confirms that it is not at all related to this situation, but really to specificities of our brain. This is what these researchers, in collaboration with scientists from South Africa and Switzerland, have just discovered. These Germans did not work alone on this discovery.

It may seem anecdotal, but it is very important, as we are gaining a better understanding of the mechanisms of the brain and what this can generate in terms of character traits and differences between individuals. So if you are egotistical, don’t feel too guilty, it may not necessarily be a problem of upbringing or your childhood. It is innate, that’s just how it is. You are like that, it is a physical peculiarity.

In a few moments on Radio Lac, the best of music accompanies you, while I wish you a great day.