Wisdom vs. Science: Why doing good is good for you

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Can acts of kindness or helping others truly improve health or reduce illness? This central question is supported by recent Harvard research indicating that kindness positively affects well-being. While the idea is not new, its enduring relevance can be traced to ancient Greece, where acts of kindness were believed to bring favor from the gods. For example, The Odyssey, as interpreted by Butler & Dirda (2013), illustrates how Odysseus, despite hardship, upholds himself and receives kindness while he hides as a beggar, highlighting its lasting value, especially in difficult circumstances.

Researchers at Harvard School of Public Health have explored how acts of kindness may impact both physical and mental health (Weziak-Bialowolska et al., 2021). Central to their findings is the idea that strength of character involves consistently acting for the benefit of oneself and others—essentially, practicing kindness. This research reinforces the broader argument that acts of kindness serve not only as a moral virtue but also as a foundation of well-being, resonating with the ethos of the healthcare profession, in which staff are entrusted to show kindness to patients (Westbrook et al., 2022).

Experiences outside research also support the key argument: acts of kindness have meaningful benefits. Will Guidara, a prominent New York restaurant owner, seeks staff motivated by altruism rather than mere personal gain, believing their kindness benefits both themselves and the business (Guidara, 2022, p. 81). This demonstrates the core claim—performing acts of kindness can create a positive environment and promote well-being.

Researchers at The Human Flourishing Institute emphasize that pursuing good through acts of kindness can significantly enhance life satisfaction, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve overall health (Harvard University, n.d.; Weziak-Bialowolska et al., 2021). These findings strengthen the main argument that acts of kindness are not only expressions of goodwill but also practical contributors to health and wellness. Even those outside of helping professions can benefit physically and mentally by incorporating kindness, suggesting that such actions are as vital as diet or exercise in promoting well-being.

References:

Butler, S., & Dirda, M. (2013). The Iliad and the Odyssey: Homer. Barnes and Noble.

Guidara, W. (2022). Unreasonable hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect . Optimism Press.

Harvard University. (n.d.). The Human Flourishing Program at the Harvard Institute for Quantitative Social Science. https://hfh.fas.harvard.edu/

Westbrook, K. W., Nicol, D., Nicol, J. K., & Orr, D. T. (2022). Effects of Servant Leadership Style on Hindrance Stressors, Burnout, Job Satisfaction, Turnover Intentions, and Individual Performance in a Nursing Unit. Journal of Health Management, 24(4), 670–684. https://doi.org/10.1177/09720634221128100

Weziak-Bialowolska, D., Bialowolski, P., VanderWeele, T. J., & McNeely, E. (2021). Character Strengths Involving an Orientation to Promote Good Can Help Your Health and Well-Being. Evidence From two Longitudinal Studies. American Journal of Health Promotion, 35(3), 388–398. https://doi.org/10.1177/0890117120964083