The Hidden Power of Disgust and Shame: Unveiling Ancient Emotions in Modern Society

In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston digs into the psychological forces of disgust and shame, exploring their ancient roots and modern implications. The episode sheds light on how these emotions shape our identities, enforce social norms, and influence political and social landscapes. Through neuroimaging studies and research from sociology and psychology, Leslie explains how physical disgust responses are linked to moral judgments and the perpetuation of social boundaries. The discussion also examines the role of media, technology, and societal structures in amplifying these emotions, impacting everything from body image to racist and sexist attitudes. The episode concludes by highlighting strategies to manage these powerful emotions, advocating for education and personal contact as tools to foster compassion and equity.

00:00 Introduction to Disgust and Shame
00:43 The Evolutionary Roots of Disgust
01:18 Neuroscience of Disgust
01:51 Moral Disgust and Social Norms
02:33 Physiological Responses to Disgust and Shame
02:56 Shame: The Social Immune System
03:32 Media Amplification of Disgust and Shame
03:59 Political and Social Implications
04:35 Authoritarian Exploitation of Disgust
07:14 Body Image and Shame
09:10 Racism and Disgust
11:40 Sexism and Disgust
14:27 Religion, Disgust, and Shame
16:15 Social Conformity and Disgust
17:52 Overcoming Harmful Disgust Responses
21:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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