Past research has shown that when we watch others lend a helping hand, we feel inspired and uplifted. Few studies, however, have actually looked at whether or not the inspiration, in turn, leads us to act altruistically as well, after witnessing the good deeds.

Now, according to a new study based on two separate experiments, people who watch inspirational clips from the Oprah Winfrey Show not only feel uplifted. They are more likely to commit to helping others, and spend  time actually doing a "good deed."

I guess the TV commercials from Liberty Mutual insurance, were factual as well as inspirational. When you see someone perform a kind act, it inspires you to be more considerate that day, too. WATCH one of their TV spots below.

READ about the University of Cambridge studies at LiveScience.com.