Rethinking Political Identities: Left Versus Right - What Does Dopamine Have to Do With It? with Friederike Fabritius and Michael Long

Is your political identity really a choice? Or is it shaped by your brain? Understanding the Neuroscience Behind Political Identity with Michael Long In their third and final interview together, Friederike Fabritius and Michael Long discuss the sensitive topic of understanding political identities. A bigger and bigger wedge being driven between the political left and political right, and Friederike and Mike take a look at this from a neuroscientific and biological perspective. There is a surprising connection between brain chemistry and political inclinations which Mike explores in his first book, 'The Molecule of More.' He reveals that our hierarchy of personal values is influenced by our unique brain chemistry and that this is a driving factor in our political leanings. The pair examine the differences between people whose brains are more driven by dopamine (an anticipatory chemical) versus the so-called "here and now" chemicals and how that affects their priorities and political views. The conversation underscores the need for understanding and community cooperation rather than divisive political rhetoric. Listeners will be challenged to reconsider how they view politics and personal priorities. Note: This conversation does get personal. 00:24 Dopamine, Serotonin, and Political Inclination 01:56 The Hierarchy of Priorities in Politics 04:54 Dopamine vs. Here and Now Chemicals 08:21 Smartness and Political Behavior 10:43 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts 14:00 A Focus on Community Follow Friederike on LinkedIn to stay connected and up to date on her neurohacks.  And if you're looking for more brain-friendly insights be sure to subscribe to The Brain-Friendly Newsletter.   Trained as a physicist, Michael Long is the author of the new book, Taming the Molecule of More, and co-author of the international bestseller, The Molecule of More, books that have changed the way the world talks about dopamine. A longtime lecturer at Georgetown University, Mike is also a produced playwright, an award-winning screenwriter, and a speechwriter. In addition, he delivers keynotes and seminars around the world on creativity, the craft of professional writing, and the neuroscience behind modern behavior. If you ask him what his career is, he'll tell you he's a "professional explainer." For more, visit MikeLongOnline.com or TamingTheMolecule.com. Links: https://TamingTheMolecule.com https://www.tiktok.com/@tamingthemolecule https://www.lemon8-app.com/@evmariexo?region=us https://www.facebook.com/MoleculeOfMore