The Center of Altruism

Duke researchers have found the part of the brain that is linked to altruism (the tendency of one to help others without expected benefit to oneself). Participants underwent brain scans while playing a computer game designed to measure altruism. The posterior superior temporal sulcus was found to be more active in people with greater altruistic tendencies. The researchers are now investigating the early development of this region. Such work could shed light on how altruism develops in people.