Something Understood

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Religion & Ethics

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life, taking a spiritual theme and exploring it through music, prose and poetry

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Something Understood: Schadenfreude

Embracing the Classical

Schadenfreude

BBC Radio 4 - Something Understood, Schadenfreude

Mark Tully investigates the tendency to take joy in the misfortune of others.

Mark Tully explores the psychology behind Schadenfreude and asks whether it can be good for us to enjoy the misfortune of others.

With concerns about increasing social inequality, some might argue that there is ever more fertile ground for Schadenfreude – a nineteenth century German expression coined to describe the joy we sometimes take in the failure or misfortune of others. It has been described as the worst human trait. However, some psychologists argue that it is an intrinsic part of our survival instinct. 

In conversation with Dr Caroline Bowman, a leading researcher in this field, Mark Tully explores the pleasure we take in the discomfiture of both peers and rivals.

Readings and music range from Clive James and Robert Fulford to Spike Jones and Verdi.
 
The readers are Cyril Nri, Francis Cadder and Jane Whittenshaw.
 
Presenter: Mark Tully 
Producer: Frank Stirling 
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