Episode 62: Sustainability and Human Behavior

{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

David 07.09.08 at 7:01 pm: This was a disappointment. There were about two minutes of psych talk in the 20-minute interview. I could tell you were trying to steer the conversation towards what psychology could contribute in marketing sustainability, but your guest overpowered you and gave a lecture full of unexamined nonsense on the beauty of sustainability. There’s not much you can do about that in the interview without seeming very rude, but you always had the option of not releasing the podcast. I listen to your podcast to get the goods on psychology (and you usually provide good goods), and you failed to deliver this time. When I want to hear about sustainability, I listen to one of the NPR podcasts to which I subscribe. I assume that this is going to be a one-off diversion, though, and I look forward to your next podcast!

On the topic of sustainability, it seems like it’s a worthless buzz word; when a word means everything, it says nothing. Promoting higher emotional intelligence, good interpersonal skills, and a high level of self-knowledge are all components of building a “sustainable society”? Please.
Michael Britt 07.10.08 at 11:59 am: I understand your point. I too would have wanted more specific insights linking psychological theory to sustainability. I can think of a few myself, so perhaps I’ll include my thoughts in the show notes.

I decided to post the interview anyway for two main reasons: a) the topic might be of interest to many listeners and the fact that there was at least some connection between sustainability and psychology might be a surprise to some, and b) the interviewee mentions that this could be an area for psychology students to use their skills to find jobs and since psych students are often concerned about how and where they can use their degrees, I thought her comments on this aspect of the topic were worth hearing.

As I say, I see your point on the other issues. Oh well. I guess not all the episodes will be winners. Yup – back to more traditional topics for the next episode.

Michael
Kathy 06.12.09 at 4:14 am: Although the interview was more about sustainability that psychology, I found it thoroughly enjoyable and extremely interesting. Dr. Rowe introduces a more holistic view of sustainability, including the psychology of marketing sustainable solutions to the masses. She mentions web sites that have lists of projects that students can use while getting their degree in psychology. I think its a great idea to fuse seemingly disparate topics – this is the basis of innovation which spurs society in a forward direction. Thanks, Michael, for taking the time to produce these podcasts. Not everyone is as disappointed as David, and especially do not share his views.
Kathy
Michael 06.12.09 at 4:42 am: Thanks for your thoughts on this Kathy. I that if the topic doesn’t interest you then neither will the episode, but as you say, if you’re a psych student looking for a different way to apply your knowledge and skills (especially in this economy), then it’s time to think outside the box regarding what you might be able to do job-wise.
Michael