Why do some people become radicalized? Are you susceptible? And how can we unchain our minds from toxic dogmas? The Ideological Brain reveals the deep connection between political beliefs and the biology of the brain.
Drawing on her own pioneering research, Dr Leor Zmigrod reveals the complex interplay between biology and environment that predisposes some to 'rigid thinking', and explains how ideologies take hold of our brains, fundamentally changing the way we think, act and interact with others. She shows how ideologues of all types struggle to change their thought patterns when faced with new information, culminating in the radical message that our politics are not superficial - politics can become cellular.
This authoritative, accessible and playful blend of psychology, politics and philosophy takes us to the cutting-edge of the new field of 'political neuroscience', explains its historical roots and looks to the future, exploring the broader social and political implications of Zmigrod's experiments. We see how everyone can keep their minds open and flexible in the face of extremist ideologies, and why we should.
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'Massively important...Zmigrod is a joyful and compelling writer' THE SUNDAY TIMES
'Fascinating, insightful, lucidly and entertainingly written' A. C. GRAYLING
'Filled with insightful findings, this book shows that ideological extremism and polarization are not just problems to fret about but puzzles that can be studied and understood' STEVEN PINKER
'Extraordinary, eye-opening and startlingly original' CASS R. SUNSTEIN
Why are some people radicalised?
Who is most susceptible to ideological thinking?
Can we unchain our minds from toxic dogmas?
In today's polarised world, The Ideological Brain is essential reading to foster a more informed, resilient and freer society. Packed with Dr Leor Zmigrod's groundbreaking new research, it uncovers the hidden mechanisms driving our beliefs and behaviours, and zooms into the processes happening inside each of us to shows how to spot - and stop - rigid thinking in ourselves and others.
With captivating real-world examples, like how a simple card sorting game can reveal your entire approach to life, Dr Leor Zmigrod reveals how cognitive rigidity - struggling to adapt to new rules - mirrors the rigidity with which you cling to social and political ideologies. While some individuals are more susceptible to dogmatic thinking than others, all of us can strive to be more flexible.
Regardless of your political stance, this book will challenge you to reassess your convictions - and what they are doing to your brain.
