Over the past few years, the Church has hosted a program patterned after the world-renowned TED Talks, called Hope Works.
While the Hope Works videos are inspiring, there are currently only 23 talks. If you are a binge-watcher like me, this isn’t going to last you very long in self-quarantine.
Related Link: Insightful TED Talk Reveals the Secret to Forming Habits You’ll Actually Keep
There are THOUSANDS of talks to choose from on the TED Talks website. So, here are 9, hand-picked for Latter-day Saints, that you will love.
1. The Power of Vulnerability—Brené Brown
The TED Talk queen, Brené Brown is of course at the top of our list. This TED Talk has gone viral in the past and if you haven’t already watched it, you need to. If you have, watch it again because it’s that good. Her expertise will give you a whole new outlook on what it means to be vulnerable.
2. Parenting in the Digital Age—Sonia Livingstone
Livingstone has been studying the effects of technology on children for almost 40 years and her findings give the phrase “lead me, guide me, walk beside me” a whole new meaning.
Her talk specifically addresses what we can do to help children learn to use technology in a way that reflects our values.
3. The Art of Choosing—Sheena Iyengar
The Church focuses on choice because we believe that agency is a God-given right. Iyengar is an intelligent and accomplished woman who encourages us to explore the boundaries of choice, both trivial and groundbreaking.
She studies the way that people all around the world make choices most effectively and the variance in her findings is shocking. Iyengar says that “we have far more to gain than to lose” when we open ourselves up to the possibilities of the different ways to make choices.
4. How We Can Protect Truth in the Age of Misinformation—Sinan Aral
In a world of fake news, it is important to arm ourselves with the truth. Aral is an expert on this topic and here we have insight from him that will open our minds to possible solutions.
The Church encourages us to seek the truth in all of our endeavors. Aral gives us tangible ways that we may be able to solve the problem. When these two are coupled together, we will be able to better arm ourselves against misinformation.
5. How To Change Your Behavior for the Better—Dan Ariely
Ariely studies where humanity is in relationship to its fullest potential. He is an optimistic man who delves into how we can change our personal behaviors by looking outside of ourselves.
6. How We’re Building the World’s Largest Family Tree— Yaniv Erlich
This one gave me Roots Tech vibes. According to Erlich, we are “citizen scientists” when we do our family history. While we know that the most important work we do is in temples, genealogy has more power in our lives than we think. You can now have the spirit of Elijah and help to solve a cold case, all by getting to know your ancestors.
7. The Lies Our Culture Tells Us About What Matters and a Better Way to Live—David Brooks
Brooks is giving us great advice for ministering and he doesn’t even know it. He is talking about human connection and the crumbling of the human ego. Brooks explains that true happiness comes when you can let go of the feeling of self-sufficiency.
He basically explains that only spiritual and relational things can fill the deepest holes in our hearts and lives. He prolifically explains the difference between happiness and joy in this talk.
Related Link: Zombies or Ministers?
8. It’s Time to Reclaim Religion—Sharon Brous
In this powerful talk, Brous, a Rabbi in the Jewish faith, talks about the importance of fleeing from extremism and routine-ism in religion. She created a foundation that fosters interfaith relations and covers the country with hope for a better world. Her goal is for us to reclaim religion. She believes that strong faith is the solution to our broken world.
9. Letting Go of God—Julia Sweeney
I mean come on, the missionaries came to her door! While she may have been overwhelmed by the information being shared with her, the question: “Do you believe that God loves you with all of His heart?” stuck with her.
What are some of your favorite TED Talks? Share in the comments.
