Changing Minds with Owen Fitzpatrick Dr. Nicholas Wright: Warhead and the Neuroscience of War
Oct 6, 2025
Dr. Nicholas Wright, a neuroscientist and Pentagon advisor, dives into the complex intersection of neuroscience and war. He discusses why all sides see themselves as morally justified in conflicts and the powerful influence of culture and identity on group beliefs. Wright also explores the importance of metacognition—"thinking about thinking"—and how it can enhance our decision-making. Drawing lessons from history, like World War II and Ukraine, he emphasizes the need for informed citizens to challenge misinformation and understand global risks.
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Three Ways Democracies Can Lose
- Modern great-power wars risk three losses: conventional defeat, nuclear exchange, or democratic collapse.
- Self-knowledge about human brains can help societies avoid or better handle these risks.
Why Every Side Feels Morally Right
- Moral decisions use the same neural machinery as other decisions and draw on visceral instincts and models.
- Strong feelings of rightness reflect inside states, which makes opposing views genuinely felt by others.
Inform Leaders By Becoming Better Informed
- Citizens should inform themselves and send clear signals to leaders about policy preferences.
- Participating in public debate influences leaders and can shape decisions on war and disarmament.
