Dr. Paul Zak: Brain Chemistry, Oxytocin, Social Interactions

13/10/2024 31 min

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Episode Synopsis

In recent years, the science of human connection has taken center stage, revealing how our brain chemistry shapes everything from trust to empathy. One molecule, in particular, has gained a lot of attention: oxytocin, often called the ‘love hormone.’ It’s being studied for its role in building relationships, fostering cooperation, and even influencing business success. Yet, while some embrace these findings, others remain skeptical about how a single hormone could impact such a wide range of behaviors. That’s why today, we’re diving into the science of human connection and exploring these claims with one of the top experts in the field, Dr. Paul Zak.Zak has published more than 200 peer-reviewed papers, book chapters, and commentaries. He was listed by researchers at Stanford University as being in the world's top 0.3% of the most cited scientists.Zak graduated with degrees in mathematics and economics from San Diego State University before acquiring a PhD in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania. He is professor at Claremont Graduate University in Southern California. He has studied brain imaging, and was among the first to identify the role of oxytocin in mediating trusting behaviors between unacquainted humans. Zak directs the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies at Claremont Graduate University and is a member of the Neurology Department at Loma Linda University Medical Center. App SIX: https://your6.com/Zak’s research: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/digital-health/articles/10.3389/fdgth.2024.1397557/full