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Dr. Nicholas Wright

Neurologist and neuroscientist who researches the brain, technology, and security and advises policy organizations; author of Warhead: How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain.

Top 10 podcasts with Dr. Nicholas Wright

Ranked by the Snipd community
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56 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 48min

The Problem with Authenticity & The Psychology That Fuels War

Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, a business psychologist and author, challenges the notion of authenticity, suggesting that striving for a fixed self can be detrimental and advocating for presenting the best version of oneself instead. Neuroscientist Nicholas Wright dives into the psychology of warfare, arguing that conflict is hardwired into human nature and exploring when it may be necessary to use force. Their fascinating discussion weaves through the complexities of self-presentation and the evolutionary roots of conflict, urging listeners to rethink common beliefs.
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21 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 29min

A tale of two futuristic cities

Andrew Stokols, an Assistant Professor of Urban Studies, shares insights on the political experiment of Xiong'an, emphasizing its role in Xi Jinping's vision. Eliot Brown, a Wall Street Journal reporter, highlights Neom's ambitious plans and the daunting financial challenges it faces, including cost overruns and limited public response. Dr. Nicholas Wright, a neuroscientist, discusses how understanding brain mechanisms can prevent conflicts, advocating for self-awareness in leadership and military practices to enhance decision-making and cooperation.
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17 snips
Nov 16, 2025 • 1h 27min

The Psychology of War: Could YOU Make a Moral Choice in Wartime?

Nicholas Wright, a neurologist and neuroscientist with extensive experience in national security, dives into the complex interplay between the brain and warfare. He explores why humans engage in violence, touching on the brain's role in fear and decision-making. Wright also discusses the psychology of leadership exemplified by figures like Hitler, and why societies often do not resist atrocities. The conversation delves into the strategic implications of warfare, the nuances of human cooperation, and the challenges of nuclear deterrence.
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11 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 1h 1min

Why the brain is the ultimate weapon of war

In a fascinating discussion, neuroscientist Nicholas Wright, who advises on security and is the author of Warhead, delves into how the brain influences warfare and vice versa. He explains the brain as the ultimate weapon, highlighting the importance of human decision-making in conflict. Wright compares Western and Chinese military strategies and examines how surprise can turn the tide of war. He also explores the psychology behind courage in combat and the implications of AI in military settings, all while maintaining an optimistic perspective on our future.
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11 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 53min

Ep 247: Nicholas Wright on the Brain Science of War

Nicholas Wright, a neuroscientist and author of 'Warhead,' delves into how neuroscience shapes wartime behavior. He discusses the brain’s architecture relevant to military tactics and the importance of mental models. The conversation covers enhancing military training through AI and realistic simulations, and how understanding fear can explain historical events like the fall of France in 1940. Wright also explores the relationship between AI and human cognition, emphasizing how technology will influence our decision-making and identity.
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10 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 26min

Are We Wired for War?

In this engaging discussion, neuroscientist Nicholas Wright, who has advised the Pentagon, explores how our brains influence both warfare and peacemaking. He argues that the same neurological mechanisms that guide our survival strategies also shape our decisions in conflict. Geeta Monaktala, Editorial Director at MIT Press, shares insights from The New Fire, illustrating AI's dual potential for innovation and destruction. Together, they delve into the interplay of human cognition, AI ethics, and the challenges democracies face in the modern world.
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10 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 39min

Can Syrians return home? Germany’s foreign minister thinks not

This discussion features Daniela Pellet, Managing Editor at the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, James Rogers, Associate Professor at City, University of London, and Dr. Nicholas Wright, a neuroscientist and Pentagon adviser. They debate the feasibility of returning Syrians home amidst political fallout in Germany. Pellet highlights the emotional pull of home versus safety concerns, while Rogers emphasizes the complexities of post-war Syria and migration politics. Dr. Wright adds insights on the psychological impacts of warfare, likening the brain's decision-making systems to an orchestra.
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9 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 40min

"The Psychology of World War III" with Dr Nicholas Wright

Dr. Nicholas Wright, a neuroscientist advising the Pentagon, discusses the intricate psychology that underpins warfare. He explains why psychological factors can outmaneuver military hardware, citing France's collapse in WWII as an example. The conversation explores how adaptability and creativity in military strategy are vital against modern threats like Russia and China. Wright warns that technology alone won't guarantee safe outcomes in war, highlighting the need for mental preparedness and a deep understanding of adversaries' intentions.
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4 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 42min

Nicholas Wright: When Ancient Brains Meet Modern War

Neuroscientist Nicholas Wright, author of "Warhead," shares fascinating insights on the intersection of the brain and warfare. He discusses why major powers often struggle in counterinsurgency conflicts, driven by deep-rooted instincts like identity and revenge. Wright highlights the importance of metacognition in preventing strategic missteps and draws on historical examples, such as post-1945 Germany, to emphasize that political rebuilding requires time and patience. His unique perspective sheds light on modern warfare’s psychological underpinnings and the evolving nature of conflict.
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Dec 30, 2025 • 1h 1min

Your brain doesn’t do reality – it does probability: And this is how we update the code.

Dr. Nicholas Wright, a neuroscientist and former neurologist giving insights on decision-making and security, explores how our brains create models based on sensory input and past experiences. He discusses the importance of metacognition for better judgment, contrasting cleverness with wisdom. Wright emphasizes the value of diverse perspectives in correcting biases and enhancing understanding. He encourages practices like reflection and seeking critique to strengthen our decision-making and creativity, ultimately advocating for optimism rooted in self-awareness.

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