Paul Zak on Neuroscience, Trust, and Why Communism Sucks

Aug 28, 2025

In this engaging conversation, Paul Zak, a neuroeconomist and author, delves into the fascinating world of oxytocin, the 'moral molecule,' revealing its pivotal role in trust and social bonds. He addresses the emotional struggles of Gen Z and emphasizes the importance of genuine relationships for personal success. The discussion critiques modern technology's impact on connection and navigates the complexities of masculinity and political identity. Zak also explores the moral contrasts between capitalism and communism, urging critical thinking in evaluating economic systems.

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INSIGHT

Social Bonds Drive Well-Being

Social relationships are the primary biological lever for longer, happier, healthier lives.
Measuring neurobiological foundations of connection lets us objectively improve social health.

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ADVICE

Verify Cause, Don't Just Measure

Test causality by manipulating neurochemistry or stimuli rather than relying on correlations.
Use interventions like pharmacology or targeted videos to map mechanisms and behavior.

insights

INSIGHT

Averages Mask Brain Variety

Averaging brain data hides meaningful individual variation in how people process the same task.
Policies built on average nudges may fail people in the distribution tails.

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Exploring the Neurobiology of Social Connection and Measurement Challenges

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Nudges and Neural Choices

05:20 • 10min

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The Bonding Power of Oxytocin

15:38 • 19min

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Mastering Skills and Neuroplasticity

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Navigating Relationships in the Digital Age

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Masculinity and Fitness: A Political Perspective

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Shifting Perspectives on Identity and Politics

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Building a Happy Life Through Connection and Virtue

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Cultivating Perseverance and Positive Habits

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Navigating Morality and Change in Economic Systems

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I sat down with neuroeconomist, author, and entrepreneur Paul Zak to discuss the neuroscience of human behavior and society. Paul explains his work on oxytocin—the "moral molecule"—and how it affects everything from political beliefs and economic systems to our most intimate relationships. We discuss why a lack of "friction" is making Gen Z miserable, why strong relationships are essential for success, and how to build a resilient mind in an anxious world.

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Purchase “The Little Book of Happiness”: https://a.co/d/fnWrfdX

Learn more about Paul’s “Six” app: https://your6.com/

Follow Paul on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/pauljzak

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Outline:

[0:00] The role of biology in economics

[10:35 10:49] Are humans rational?

[16:33 16:47] Oxytocin, trust, and cooperation

[23:58 24:12] How do screens impact our interactions?

[27:56] Homogeneity vs. polarization

[34:33] Learning new skills with neuroscience

[38:56] You need to encounter friction in life

[50:08] Acclimate to fear and uncertainty

[54:53] Good relationships allow you to take risks

[58:25] The neuroscience of dating, politics, and masculinity

[1:11:17] Testosterone turns Democrats into Republicans?

[1:18:13] You always have to fight communism

[1:26:20] Status-seeking is a zero-sum game

[1:32:34] “The Little Book of Happiness”

[1:37:06] The morality of free markets

[1:43:53] The pros and cons of American dynamism

[1:49:13] Is persuasion just manipulation?

[2:02:29] Building an app to set emotional goals

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Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ldhH-yo0_zc

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