#140 – Lisa Feldman Barrett: Love, Evolution, and the Human Brain
Nov 20, 2020
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Lisa Feldman Barrett, a renowned neuroscientist and psychologist, shares her groundbreaking insights on the human brain and emotions. The conversation traverses the evolution of love and the complex interplay between romantic feelings and logic. Barrett humorously recounts her dating journey, blending personal anecdotes with scientific exploration of emotional connections. She dispels myths about rational thought's evolution and highlights the dual nature of human behavior, inviting listeners to rethink their perceptions of self and love in our interconnected world.
Emotions are not fixed and universal, but constructed based on individual and cultural contexts.
Deep dives
Evolution of the Human Brain
The essay explores the question of whether the human brain evolved for thinking. While the true purpose of brain evolution is still unknown, the traditional assumption is that brains evolved in a progressive scale, with more complex brains developing in more complex animals. However, this phylogenetic scale has been challenged by modern evolutionary biology. By studying creatures with and without brains, scientists have determined that brains evolved under the selection pressure of hunting. Brains allowed animals to sense and respond to their environment, providing an advantage in predation. The development of senses, a head, and a jaw was closely tied to brain development. Overall, the essay challenges traditional views of brain evolution and explores alternative perspectives based on the niche and selection pressures in different environments.
Learning from the Writing Process
Two key lessons learned from writing are: 1) Writing takes longer than expected, so it's important to be prepared for unexpected delays. 2) Knowing what to leave out is a challenge. A good storyteller knows what details to exclude, but in academic writing, all details are typically included. Brevity is a skill that requires practice and the ability to prioritize information. Writing essays helped the author focus on specific neuroscience topics and connect them with philosophical or human nature questions, all within a brief format.
Humans as Thinkers
The essay explores the idea of whether the human brain evolved to think. The traditional notion is that brains evolved in layers, with rationality residing in the neocortex, which is considered the most recent addition in evolutionary terms. However, this notion is being challenged by modern evolutionary biology. The essay discusses the limitations of the phylogenetic scale and examines alternative perspectives on brain evolution. The author highlights the importance of hunting and the development of senses in driving brain evolution. Rather than a progressive scale, brain evolution is seen as a response to the selection pressure of predation.
Exploring Evil and Human Nature
While the author acknowledges the study of evil and human nature, they note that discussing it from a scientific perspective may not provide definitive answers. The author believes that humans don't have essences and that concepts like good and evil are complex and multifaceted. Neuroscience can provide insights into the brain processes underlying human behavior, but understanding evil requires a broader, interdisciplinary approach. The author encourages open dialogues and explorations of ethics, philosophy, history, and psychology as they pertain to human behavior and morality.
The Complex Factors That Shape Human Behavior
Human behavior is influenced by a multitude of factors, including genetics, environment, and individual experiences. These factors interact in complex ways to shape who we are and how we act. The book "How Emotions are Made" explores the role of emotions in this process, highlighting that emotions are not fixed and universal, but rather constructed based on individual and cultural contexts. This challenges the notion of a single, essential self and emphasizes the importance of understanding the various influences on human behavior.
The Power of Words and their Impact on the Brain
Words have a profound impact on the brain, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and even our biological responses. The way we express ourselves and communicate with others can shape our perception of the world and our interactions with others. The book "Naming the Mind" delves into the origin and significance of language, highlighting how it affects our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
The Dynamic Nature of Consciousness
Consciousness is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is still not fully understood. It involves the dynamic interplay between our physical bodies and our brains, as well as our external environment. The book "The Beak of the Finch" explores the concept of consciousness through the lens of evolution, demonstrating how different species adapt and interact with their environments. It challenges the notion of a singular consciousness and highlights the intricate relationship between an organism and its surroundings.
Love Stories and the Complexity of Relationships
Love stories offer a glimpse into the complex dynamics of human relationships. They highlight the multidimensionality of love, showcasing how individuals navigate the intricacies of emotions, connections, and personal growth. Books like "Major Pettigrew's Last Stand" and "The Storied Life of AJ Fickrey" capture the beauty and challenges of love in various settings, ranging from unconventional partnerships to unlikely connections. These stories emphasize the transformative power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
OUTLINE:
Here’s the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time.
(00:00) – Introduction
(07:27) – Falling in love
(25:10) – Love at first sight
(39:49) – Romantic
(43:48) – Writing process
(54:32) – Evolution of the human brain
(1:08:41) – Nature of evil
(1:17:23) – Love is an evolutionary advantage
(1:21:59) – Variation in species
(1:27:41) – Does evolution have a direction?
(1:45:19) – Love with an inanimate object
(1:49:37) – Just be yourself is confusing advice
(1:59:49) – Consciousness
(2:06:26) – Book recommendations
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