Vlad discusses why using intelligence as a benchmark for self-worth is not emotionally healthy, his experiences with doing so, and what helped him get away from doing it. He also discusses some of the environmental factors that contribute to this kind of thinking, and implications it could have for our society. Born in London, Vladimir McMahan spent parts of his childhood in New York, Connecticut and eventually, Florida. Much like the changing scenery, Vlad’s interests shifted from field to field as well: from philosophy to physics, one could say he’s “dabbled” in a variety of ideas. Despite this, his greatest passions never changed: self-improvement and people. Today, he is a proud member of North Broward Preparatory School’s Peer Support, Psychology Club, Mock Trial Team, Peace Love Books, and a number of other clubs. He dreams of someday becoming a diplomat. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
Intelligence as a Benchmark | Vladimir McMahan | TEDxYouth@NBPS