Ep 311 Peacewarts: Social Chemistry 101 – The Intoxicated Empire (Class 9)

Ep 311 Peacewarts: Social Chemistry 101 – The Intoxicated Empire (Class 9) Episode Summary: We examine the neurobiology of addiction and how substance-induced hypofrontality bypasses the rational prefrontal cortex. Using six historical cases and contemporary global statistics, we explore how chemical saturation—from illicit drugs to widespread prescription use—defines the modern background environment of decision-making. Homework: Look up Norman Ohler’s work inBlitzed regarding Pervitin in WWII. How was methamphetamine initially used by German troops during the Blitzkrieg, and why did military leaders eventually try to restrict it? Write down one question about any of this episode’s topics. If you don’t have a question, write 'no question.' Optional: Research James Schlesinger’s actions during the final days of the Nixon administration. Why did he consider it necessary to alter nuclear command procedures? Books: If you'd like to read more on this subject, some book suggestions are In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction by Gabor Maté, M.D., a compassionate and widely read examination of how trauma and biology drive addiction, and Blitzed: Drugs in the Third Reich by Norman Ohler, a widely discussed account of drug use in the Third Reich detailing how chemical dependence distorted decision-making and military volatility. Learning Topics: Hypofrontality; Prefrontal Cortex Regulation; Norman Ohler (Blitzed); The Modern Saturation; Russian State-Monopoly Economics; Procedural Safeguards; The Sobriety of Statecraft. · Join the Community / Get the Books: www.AvisKalfsbeek.com · Podcast Music: Javier Peke Rodriguez “I am late, madame Curie” https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW