Should we all do more random acts of kindness? Favours, presents, compliments — research suggests that giving to other people is the best way to find contentment.
How to be happier: Help out a friend!
Humankind: According to Dutch writer and historian Rutger Bregman, humans are hardwired for kindness. Despite often being called a selfish species, we have, he argues, evolved to work together rather than to compete. Glossary
Random Acts of Kindness Day - A day dedicated to encouraging people to perform small, unexpected acts of kindness for others, without expecting anything in return, with the goal of spreading positivity and making the world a better place; it is celebrated annually on 17 February.
Dopamine - A hormone and neurotransmitter that plays several important roles in the brain and body, providing us with positive sensations, rewarding us for evolutionarily good behaviours like eating food.
Virtuous - Having or showing high moral standards
Gratitude - The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
Buddhism - A religion of eastern and central Asia. It began with the teaching of Siddhartha Gautama on suffering.
Compassionate - Showing understanding and sympathy to people who are suffering.