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Why are we so attached to our things? - Christian Jarrett

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TEDEd Animation

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After witnessing the “violent rage” shown by babies whenever deprived of an item they considered their own, Jean Piaget – a founding father of child psychology – observed something profound about human nature: Our sense of ownership emerges incredibly early. But why do we become so attached to things? Christian Jarrett details the psychology of ownership.

One revealing study found that looking at our possessions, as opposed to someone else’s, triggers extra brain activity where?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Christian Jarrett
  • Director Avi Ofer
  • Animator Avi Ofer
  • Illustrator Avi Ofer
  • Composer Marcos Tawil
  • Sound Designer Marcos Tawil
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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