Robert Sapolsky: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst
Stanford Iranian Studies Program・2 minutes read
Renowned naturalist and neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky intertwines baboon research with neurological studies, delving into human nature complexities. His storytelling prowess draws comparisons to Jane Goodall, blending science with societal impact to explore human behavior intricacies.
Insights
- Robert Sapolsky, a renowned neuroscientist, merges fieldwork with neurological research, exploring the complexities of human behavior and society, solidifying his reputation as a captivating storyteller and speaker.
- The brain's insula triggers reflexes related to disgust, mediating both gustatory and moral repugnance, highlighting the subjective nature of moral disgust and its potential to evoke physical reactions, while the frontal cortex plays a crucial role in impulse control and emotional regulation, inhibiting impulsive behavior by communicating with the amygdala.
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Recent questions
What is neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to change and reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This process allows the brain to adapt to experiences, learn new information, and recover from injuries.
How does oxytocin influence behavior?
Oxytocin is a hormone known for promoting pro-social behavior, trust, and cooperation. It influences behavior towards individuals perceived as part of the same group, making individuals more pro-social to in-group members and less so to out-group members.
What is the role of the insula in the brain?
The insula in the brain triggers reflexes related to disgust, preventing poisoning from toxic food. It activates when thinking about disgusting food or morally repugnant behavior, mediating both gustatory and moral disgust in humans.
How does the frontal cortex impact behavior?
The frontal cortex is crucial for impulse control, gratification postponement, and emotional regulation. It inhibits impulsive behavior by sending signals to the amygdala, playing a significant role in decision-making and social behavior.
Can genes determine behavior?
Genes do not directly determine behavior; they are regulated by environmental factors. Interactions between genes and the environment shape behavior, highlighting the complex interplay between genetics, experiences, and behavior.
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