Is Being Good Actually Good for the Body?
FYSEMR 66I
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
Did you know that kindness is good for your health? Did you know that happiness is contagious? Did you know that music lowers your cortisol levels? The science is in! This seminar will examine how the biology of prosocial behaviors shows how kindness and optimism improve overall well-being in profound and demonstrable ways. We will delve into a revolutionary approach to health, longevity, and quality of life and explain the scientific evidence that supports this work.
The seminar will investigate five fundamental values of prosocial behaviors — kindness, optimism, forgiveness, gratitude, and happiness — and collectively engage in six essential strategies for cultivating these values—relationships, nutrition, physical activity, meditation, music, and nature.
Along the way we will read the scientific data that reveals the impact such behavior has on biology, particularly on telomeres, the parts of DNA that serve as biomarkers of aging. While DNA is mostly immutable, telomeres are influenced by our choices. This seminar will discuss evidence that what is commonly ascribed to “spiritual” well-being has a clear and direct impact on physical health, helping to buffer premature aging and decrease the incidence of chronic disease.
NOTE: This is a Radcliffe First-Year Seminar and will include optional co-curricular activities related to the seminar topic. The seminar will be held at the Radcliffe Institute, Fay House, Sheerr Room, 10 Garden St.
Class Notes
First-Year Seminars are available only to first-year students. You may apply to both Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 First-Year Seminars via the FYS lottery between July 6 and August 6, 2026 at 11:59PM-midnight.
You may apply to as many seminars each term as you would like, but we recommend you apply to at least six in fall and three in spring.
As part of your application, you must provide a brief statement on why you are interested in each seminar. You will be notified of lottery results for both fall and spring seminars at 5 pm on August 11. If you are unsuccessful in the lottery, you may still join any seminar with open seats. A list of open seminars and instructions on next steps will be available on the First-Year Seminar Program website August 11 at 12 Noon.
Not Available for Cross Registration
