Brian Little’s TED Talk “Who Are You, Really? The Puzzle of Personality” explores the complexities of personality, particularly focusing on extroversion and introversion. Little explains how our behaviors are shaped by “biogenic” (biological), “sociogenic” (societal), and “idiogenic” (personal goals) influences. He also introduces the idea of “free traits,” where we adopt behaviors that might go against our natural tendencies to achieve personal goals.
Choose one of the following prompts for discussion:
Extroversion and Introversion: How do biogenic, sociogenic, and idiogenic factors influence whether you act more extroverted or introverted in different situations?
Free Traits: Have you ever behaved in an extroverted way despite being naturally introverted (or vice versa) to achieve a goal? How did this experience impact you?
Dynamic Personality: Do you agree with Little’s view that our personality can change based on our goals and social context? Why or why not?
Personal Projects: How do your personal projects and passions influence whether you act more extroverted or introverted?