The Neuroscience and Choice of Empathy

03/01/2026 11 min
The Neuroscience and Choice of Empathy

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Episode Synopsis

Examines the concept of lacking empathy, exploring the reasons it occurs and its effects. While some causes are genetic, such as personality disorders, the focus is on individuals who choose or learn to act without empathy.It uses the “shopping cart litmus test” as a simple way to illustrate how everyday actions reflect a person’s empathy toward others. The passage also discusses how trauma, burnout, and social similarities can influence one’s ability to empathize with certain groups.Finally, it highlights the brain’s role in empathy, particularly the amygdala, noting that a lack of practice or engagement can make empathy increasingly difficult to access.You can listen and download our episodes for free on more than 10 different platforms:https://linktr.ee/life_notesProduced by:https://www.podcaistudio.com/