In the NOFA lab, one of the topics we investigate is the role of social processes in addiction. In this ted talk, Johann Hari argues for the role of putting the social disconnection and isolation often seen in addiction at the forefront in order to offer a more compassionate and effective response to the people suffering with addictions.
What really causes addiction — to everything from cocaine to smart-phones? And how can we overcome it? Johann Hari has seen our current methods fail firsthand, as he has watched loved ones struggle to manage their addictions. He started to wonder why we treat addicts the way we do — and if there might be a better way. As he shares in this deeply personal talk, his questions took him around the world, and unearthed some surprising and hopeful ways of thinking about an age-old problem.