The Next Big Idea Daily The Surprising Biology of the Seven Deadly Sins
Dec 11, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Guy Leschziner, a neurologist and author of *Seven Deadly Sins: The Biology of Being Human*, shares insights into the surprising biological underpinnings of the seven deadly sins. He challenges the notion of moral failings by exploring how our brains and genetics shape behaviors like aggression and gluttony. Leschziner also discusses the impact of environmental factors, such as parental influence and historical events, on our emotional development. Discover how these timeless themes play a role in modern human behavior!
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Brain Disease and Sin
- Brain diseases and treatments can influence the seven deadly sins.
- Studying individuals with these conditions provides insights into brain regions responsible for behavior.
Genetic Influence on Sin
- Genes inherited from conception can profoundly affect future personality, influencing aggression levels and appetite.
- The "warrior gene" (MAOA) can impact aggression, even being used in legal cases.
Alex's Genetic Hunger
- Alex, a young woman, has a genetic variant affecting her hypothalamus.
- This makes her constantly ravenous, demonstrating how genes impact appetite.
