59. Robert Sapolsky: The psychology behind Donald Trump, the science of stress, and the illusion of ‘free will’
Feb 12, 2024
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Robert Sapolsky, a scientist specializing in stress and psychology, discusses the psychology behind Donald Trump, the science of stress, and the illusion of 'free will'. Other topics include baboon behavior and its political parallels, the impact of social media on politics, why poor Americans support Trump, the influence of race on jury decisions, the lack of empathy, and the genetic and environmental influences on mental health.
Chronic stress caused by societal factors like socioeconomic status can have detrimental effects on health, leading to various diseases and mental health problems.
Understanding the relationship between societal status, stress, and health can help address health inequalities and develop appropriate interventions.
The idea of free will is challenged by growing evidence suggesting that our behaviors are shaped by biological and environmental factors, inviting a reevaluation of societal structures and approaches to individual behavior.
Deep dives
The impact of stress on health
Stress, whether from physical or psychological factors, triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. While stress in immediate, life-threatening situations can be beneficial, chronic stress caused by societal factors like socioeconomic status can have detrimental effects on health. Chronic stress is linked to various diseases including cardiovascular issues, diabetes, immune dysfunction, and mental health problems like depression. Understanding the psychological stress caused by societal factors is important in addressing health disparities.
The role of social subordination in stress-related diseases
Studies show that socioeconomic status has a significant impact on health. Individuals in lower socioeconomic positions often experience chronic stress due to lack of control, predictability, and social support. This chronic psychological stress can lead to various stress-related diseases. Baboon studies in the Serengeti indicate parallels between social subordination and health disparities in humans. Understanding the relationship between societal status, stress, and health can help address health inequalities and develop appropriate interventions.
The impact of inequality on health
Societal inequality is strongly linked to poor health outcomes. The socioeconomic health gradient demonstrates that as individuals move down the socioeconomic ladder, health deteriorates. Factors such as unequal access to healthcare, lack of supportive social environments, and increased susceptibility to social stressors contribute to this pattern. The negative effects of inequality on health are not solely linked to healthcare access or physical environmental factors, but are also influenced by psychological stress caused by social subordination and lack of control.
The concept of free will
There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that free will, in the traditional sense, is limited or nonexistent. Biological and environmental factors shape who we are, and our behaviors are a product of those factors. The idea that we have complete control over our decisions and actions is challenged by this notion. However, this does not negate the importance of personal responsibility or ethical considerations. Rather, it invites a reevaluation of societal structures, such as criminal justice systems, to consider alternative approaches to individual behavior.
The complexity of human behavior and mental health
Individuals experience a range of mental health conditions and behaviors influenced by genetic, environmental, and social factors. Mental health disorders like depression and schizophrenia are not solely caused by genetic predisposition or personal choices, but are influenced by a combination of biological, social, and environmental factors. Understanding the interplay of these factors can help shape effective interventions and support systems for individuals with mental health challenges.
Why do we get stressed? What are the psychological differences between conservatives and liberals? Is free will a myth?
Rory and Alastair are joined by scientist Dr Robert Sapolsky to answer all these questions and more in today's episode of Leading.
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