

543: R. Douglas Fields | Understanding Why We Snap
Aug 5, 2021
R. Douglas Fields, a leading neuroscientist and author of "Why We Snap," dives deep into the intriguing world of rage and its evolutionary roots. He discusses the various triggers that can cause ordinary people to snap, exploring the complex interplay between instincts and rational thoughts during high-stress moments. Fields introduces the mnemonic LIFEMORTS to help identify and manage rage before it escalates. With personal anecdotes and scientific insights, he highlights how understanding our rage circuits can lead to better emotional control.
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Barcelona Robbery
- In Barcelona, Dr. Fields was robbed and instinctively fought back, surprising himself with his aggressive reaction.
- This event sparked his research into the neuroscience of rage.
Hardwired for Violence
- Everyone has the capacity for violence; it's located in the hypothalamus and essential for survival.
- This "rage circuit" is triggered unconsciously and can be activated without conscious thought.
Subconscious Threat Detection
- The brain's threat detection system constantly evaluates internal and external stimuli before information reaches the conscious mind.
- Specific triggers activate aggression, exemplified by maternal aggression.