Larissa MacFarquhar's 'Strangers Drowning' examines mankind's do-gooders

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Though we often refer to people who are willing to help as do-gooders, what they do isn't always good for themselves or for others.

The innate desire to help others strikes some people especially hard. It can manifest itself in all sorts of ways, and though we often refer to such people as do-gooders, what they do isn't always good for themselves or for others.

It's all part of a fascinating phenomenon writer Larissa MacFarquhar explores in her new book,
"Strangers Drowning: Grappling with Impossible Idealism, Drastic Choices and the Overpowering Urge to Help."

MacFarquhar joined host Alex Cohen with more.

To listen to the full interview, click on the blue audio player above. You can also read an excerpt from 'Strangers Drowning' below.

Larissa MacFarquhar's 'Strangers Drowning' examines mankind's do-gooders

Though we often refer to people who are willing to help as do-gooders, what they do isn't always good for themselves or for others.

Larissa MacFarquhar will join Alex Cohen again Thursday night as part of the ALOUD series at the L.A. Library. Click here for more information.