Robert Malenka

In this discussion, Dr. Robert Malenka, a leading neurobiologist at Stanford, unpacks how our brain's reward systems drive choices. He dives into the roles of dopamine and serotonin in behavior, motivation, and social connections. Malenka elucidates the impact of neuroplasticity on addiction and how context can hijack reward systems. He also explores empathy's biological roots and the potential therapeutic effects of substances like MDMA on social behavior and autism, shedding light on the fascinating interplay between neuroscience and our daily choices.