#140 – Lisa Feldman Barrett: Love, Evolution, and the Human Brain

44 snips

Nov 20, 2020

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.

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INSIGHT

Love and Prediction

Lisa doesn't believe in love at first sight, citing the brain's predictive nature.
She believes love involves appreciating, even loving, someone's perceived flaws.

ANECDOTE

The Six-Way Plug

For Valentine's Day, Dan once gifted Lisa a six-way plug.
This was a deeply romantic gesture, showcasing his understanding of her needs.

ADVICE

Writing Advice

When writing, know what to leave out.
Good storytellers understand the art of omission for clarity and impact.

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How Emotions Are Made

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Lisa Feldman Barrett

In this book, Lisa Feldman Barrett presents a new neuroscientific explanation of emotions, overturning the widely held belief that emotions are automatic, universal, and hardwired in different brain regions. Instead, she argues that emotions are constructed in the moment through a unique interplay of brain, body, and culture. Barrett's theory, known as the 'Theory of Constructed Emotions,' suggests that emotions are highly individualized and vary by culture. The book explores how this new understanding has significant implications for fields such as psychology, medicine, law, parenting, and national security. Barrett uses clear, readable prose and practical examples to make her complex theories accessible to a broad audience.

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The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is a moving story about a bookstore owner whose life is transformed by unexpected events. After the death of his wife and the theft of his prized book collection, A.J. Fikry finds new purpose through a mysterious package and the people around him. The novel celebrates the power of books and human connections.

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In *The Triple Helix*, Lewontin argues that understanding living organisms requires considering the dynamic interactions between genes, organisms, and environments. He critiques the simplistic view of genetic determinism and emphasizes the role of environmental factors in shaping biological outcomes. The book provides a nuanced perspective on the complexity of biological systems and their interactions.

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