The Exciting New Research That Proves The Link
Between Doing Good And Living A Longer, Healthier, Happier Life
May 30, 2007
Rock-n-roll legend Billy Joel sang, "Only the Good Die Young", but
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine bioethics professor Dr.
Stephen Post, Ph.D., believes that the good live well.
"Sometimes, the good do die young," he said. "But studies prove
indicate that 'the good' are happier, healthier and live a little longer."
In the new book, Why Good Things Happen to Good People (Random House), Dr. Post
and journalist Jill Neimark weave the growing new science of love and giving
with moving real-life stories to show how giving unlocks the doors to health,
happiness, and a longer life. The book went on sale nationwide this month.
"This book represents a dream come true for me," said Post. "It's
a dream that began when I was 16 years old. Most of my life has been focused on
the science and philosophy of positive emotions and giving behaviors."
Post has devoted much of his adult life to scientific research that sets out to
prove the life-enhancing benefits of giving behavior. He serves as president of
the Institute for Research on Unlimited Love, which conducts and funds research
on altruism, compassion and service. His research shows that when we give of
ourselves, especially if we start young, everything from life satisfaction to
self-realization and physical health is significantly improved. Mortality is
delayed. Depression is reduced. Well-being and good fortune are increased.
In this new book, Post distills academic research into an inspirational message.
The research includes a 50-year study showing that people who are giving during
their high school years have better physical and mental health throughout their
lives. Other studies show that older people who give live longer than those who
don't. Helping others has been shown to bring health benefits to those with
chronic illness, including HIV, multiple sclerosis, and heart problems. And
studies show that people of all ages who help others on a regular basis, even in
small ways, feel happiest.
Why Good Things Happen to Good People tells the stories of lives transformed by
giving. Its 'love and longevity scale' allows readers to test their own habits
of giving, and a chapter-by-chapter plan teaches readers how to change their own
lives. According to Post, using the lessons and guidelines in each chapter, you
can create a personalized plan for a more generous life, finding the style of
giving that suits you best.
"This book captures great new science, great stories, practical self help,
and even a carefully validated scale so readers can assess themselves in 10
different ways of doing unto others," he said.
For more information on Why Good Things Happen to Good People, visit http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2007-05/www.whygoodthingshappen.com
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About Case Western Reserve University
Case is among the nation's leading research institutions. Founded in 1826 and
shaped by the unique merger of the Case Institute of Technology and Western
Reserve University, Case is distinguished by its strengths in education,
research, service, and experiential learning. Located in Cleveland, Case offers
nationally recognized programs in the Arts and Sciences, Dental Medicine,
Engineering, Law, Management, Medicine, Nursing, and Social Work. http://www.case.edu/
Contact: Jason Tirotta
Case Western Reserve University
Medical News Today: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com
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