Learn about the biology of emotions and human behavior. Understand why you feel the way you do, and become more emotionally intelligent.
Key points
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The analysis of one’s life can predict human behavior
Imagine a world without aggression, where we stopped Hitler and prevented 9/11. Unfortunately, it’s impossible, but we can explore the motives and influences to lessen tension and create a better place for the next generations. Nowadays, human violence decreased compared to the past centuries, and Sapolsky feels hopeful about the future.
Sapolsky provides us with a full-scale analysis of human behavior proved by practical observations and research in neuroscience, biology, behaviorism, ethology, and social studies. For newbies in the neurosciences, topics cover the information gradually evolving its complexity.
We hate and fear the wrong kind of violence, violence in the wrong context. Because violence in the right context is different. We pay good money to watch it in a stadium, we teach our kids to fight back… ~ Robert M. Sapolsky
This summary focuses on one significant aspect and shows human behavior’s connections and ruling patterns. Starting from the brain structure and its functions, we will move to the next stop of the stereotypes about hormones (to break them). Then, we will discover what’s happening with toddlers inside and outside the mother's womb to answer whether it’s possible to ‘cure’ evilness.
Do we indeed have free will, or is our behavior always triggered? There might be changes to the current justice system, including implementing scientific approaches. While the summary provides us with theory, it also gives us a chance to explore our own cultural and personal background that defines our characters now. Understanding universal rules makes decision-making more manageable, helps obtain desired results in professional and private life, and builds win-win relationships with others.
The brain size varies across adults and correlates with the level of intelligence — that moment when size matters.
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The brain is a complex structure with layers
To analyze behavior, we must look at our brain from numerous levels: the nervous system, sensory stimuli, and hormones. The list can extend to the evolutionary processes that occurred millions of years before. This summary focuses on the key elements that define our best and worst behavior. The question, to begin with, is — why did that behavior occur?
Sensory information alters human behavior in different ways
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Testosterone feels pleasurable because it boosts our confidence
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Teenagers show increased emotionality in comparison to children and adults
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Not poverty but inequality leads to violence due to the lack of trust
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Non-literal things can literally harm us
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Conclusion
About the author
Robert M. Sapolsky is an American researcher in the field of neuroendocrinology. He’s also a professor of biology and neurology at Stanford University.
In this captivating exploration of human behavior, a renowned neuroscientist delves into the intricate workings of our brains to uncover the biological roots behind our best and worst actions. From the influence of genes and hormones to the impact of childhood experiences, Sapolsky offers a thought-provoking analysis of what drives our behavior, shedding light on the complex interplay between biology and society.
Who should read Behave
Psychology students seeking a comprehensive understanding of human behavior.
Neuroscientists interested in exploring the biological basis of human actions.
General readers curious about the complexities of human behavior.