Building Gratitude

Groundbreaking research has revealed that practicing gratitude can lead to transformative life changes. More than a simple "thank you," studies show gratitude can build physical health, personal happiness, and strong social bonds. This issue of Greater Good explores how this research can apply to everyday life, from romantic relationships to children s classrooms. This issue also marks the debut of a few new departments in Greater Good, including a column by co-editor Dacher Keltner in which he helps readers understand the emotions conveyed by their body language.

Table of Contents

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From the Editors

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In Brief
Emotional machines
Why do we give to charity?
The psychology of obesity
And more

Columns
Brain Teaser: Are women more empathic than men?
Body Language: A soldier's toughest mission [PDF]
Social Intelligence: Daniel Goleman on raising secure kids

Q & A: The Politics of Gratitude
An interview with Iraq's former ambassador to the United States, Rend Al-Rahim Francke
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Symposium on Gratitude

Pay It Forward
Gratitude may seem like a simple emotion, but Robert Emmons argues that it inspires kindness, connection, and transformative life changes. And he s done the research to prove it.
Sidebar: "The Art of the Thank You," by Sage Cohen

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Stumbling toward Gratitude [PDF]
New research suggests gratitude is a key to health and happiness, but Catherine Price wanted to find out for herself.
Sidebar: "Four Ways to Give Thanks," by Catherine Price and "Shallow Gratitude," by Christi Chidester
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Love, Honor, and Thank
Researchers Jess Alberts and Angela Trethewey have found that a successful relationship doesn t just depend on how partners divide their household chores, but on how they each express gratitude for the work the other one puts in.
Sidebar: "How to Avoid Labor Pains," by Jess Alberts and Angela Trethewey

A Lesson in Thanks
Psychologist Jeffrey Froh infused middle-school classes with a small dose of gratitude and found that it made students feel more connected to their friends, family, and their school.
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Features

Hope on the Battlefield
by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman
Military leaders know a secret: The vast majority of people are overwhelmingly reluctant to take a human life.

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Mindful Kids, Peaceful Schools
by Jill Suttie
With eyes closed and deep breaths, students are learning a new method to reduce anxiety, conflict, and attention disorders. But don t call it meditation.
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In Review

Print: Science, religion, and the changeable brain; the power of play; good news for good people.
Culture: What can science fiction teach us about altruism?

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An Idea for the Greater Good
Barbara Ehrenreich invites you to dance.

Resources for the Greater Good
A guide to organizations that promote peace and well-being.

Write for Greater Good

Writers for our magazine range from social scientists to journalists to teachers. If you are interested in writing an article for the magazine, please first read our submission guidelines.

Write for Greater Good

A chance to count your blessings