What Matters Most | Polymath Studies

Character & Humanity Learning Lab

Speeches and documentary films about human equality, prejudice, integrity, compassion, conscience, and moral courage. Choose a video to watch in the main player.

Human Equality & the Dangers of Prejudice

I Have a Dream — Human EqualityDr. Martin Luther King Jr. · A historic appeal for racial equality, justice, and the dignity of every person.Watch on YouTube ↗

A Class DividedJane Elliott / PBS FRONTLINE. A documentary about prejudice and discrimination.Watch on YouTube ↗

The Danger of a Single StoryChimamanda Ngozi Adichie · The harm caused by stereotypes and incomplete stories.Watch on YouTube ↗

Humanity & Moral Courage

Humanity Over HatredCharlie Chaplin · The Great Dictator (1940). A call to resist cruelty and protect human dignity.Watch on YouTube ↗

Compassion & Empathy

The Power of AltruismMatthieu Ricard · Why the well-being of others should matter to us.Watch on YouTube ↗

The Power of VulnerabilityBrené Brown · Empathy, belonging, and authentic human connection.Watch on YouTube ↗

Emotional First AidGuy Winch · Why caring for emotional well-being matters.Watch on YouTube ↗

Honesty, Respect & Responsibility

Disagree Without DehumanizingJulia Dhar · How to disagree productively while respecting other people.Watch on YouTube ↗