Human beings are hardwired to take pleasure in the activities, experiences, and mental states that help us survive. This goes beyond the obvious practical matters, such as eating and sleeping, to include many of the psychological traits that define us as humans. We enjoy cooperating and find teamwork fulfilling. We delight in making progress and take pride in what we contribute. We form attachments to people, places, and communities, and we experience a warm glow when we care for them. Even our ability to find meaning in life is rooted in the neurobiology of pleasure: stories and metaphors
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