In the Garden of Good and Evil

From altruism to violent conflict.

by Ervin Staub, Ph.D.

Many Students Are Happy, Others Bullied, Some Excluded, Active Bystandership Helps.

Students who are frequently harmed by peers are greatly affected, but so are all students if everyone remains passive. Children who are excluded have even worse feelings about their lives at school than those who are harmed. Active bystandership makes a difference for both victims and actors. Everyone--students, teachers and parents-- need to become more active. Read More

Moral Courage, Heroism and Heroic Rescue

What characteristics, socialization experiences and circumstances lead people to morally courageous and heroic actions? How can we "learn by doing," shaping ourselves into heroes as we act in helpful and courageous ways? Read More

Nonviolence as a Way to Address Injustice and Group Conflict

Nonviolence has been effectively used to achieve great social ends: through mass protests and people's movements, but also through diplomacy and other means. It can be used to address inequality, repression or the threat of violence against groups, as well as conflict between nations, as now between Iran and the U.S. and other countries. Read More

Our Power as Active Bystanders

When individuals need help, or groups are victimized, witnesses often remain passive. But research and real life examples show the great power of “active bystanders.” Sometimes even single individuals have huge impact. At other times it requires people to join, or the power of governments, to help or protect people, or develop harmonious relations between groups. Read More

Altruism Born of Suffering

Altruism born of suffering

By Ervin Staub Read More

A Vision for Occupy Wall Street

Occupy Wall Street protestors, and those they inspired around the country and the world, are doing most things right, but something important is missing: a positive vision that creates hope and engages others. Read More