Compassion isn’t just something we extend to others, but something we can—and should—extend to ourselves. It benefits oneself as much as it benefits others. Negative self-talk is common among many, but being compassionate to yourself improves not only your mental state, but also your physiology. Dr. James Doty discusses the evolution and neuroscience of compassion and how it changes us both physically and mentally.

James R. Doty, M.D. is an adjunct professor of medicine, primary care and population health. He is the founder and director of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) where his academic focus is on meditation, compassion, and self-compassion, for which he has lectured worldwide. He is also a neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, author, and philanthropist.

This event is presented by the Stanford Alumni Association.