Uploaded November 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
The Michael Shermer Show # 562
War begins in the human mind long before it unfolds on the battlefield.
In this episode, Michael Shermer sits down with Nicholas Wright, a neurologist, neuroscientist, security strategist, and advisor to the Pentagon, to explore some of the biggest questions of our time: why do humans fight, and how does the brain shape violence, leadership, and geopolitical decision-making?
Nicholas Wright is a member of the Royal Colleges of Physicians and a neuroscientist who researches the brain, technology and security at University College London, Georgetown University, and the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC. He worked as a neurology doctor in London and Oxford, and has published numerous academic papers which have been covered by the BBC and New York Times. His new book is Warhead: How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain.
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Listen to The Michael Shermer Show or subscribe directly on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
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The Michael Shermer Show # 562
War begins in the human mind long before it unfolds on the battlefield.
In this episode, Michael Shermer sits down with Nicholas Wright, a neurologist, neuroscientist, security strategist, and advisor to the Pentagon, to explore some of the biggest questions of our time: why do humans fight, and how does the brain shape violence, leadership, and geopolitical decision-making?
Nicholas Wright is a member of the Royal Colleges of Physicians and a neuroscientist who researches the brain, technology and security at University College London, Georgetown University, and the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC. He worked as a neurology doctor in London and Oxford, and has published numerous academic papers which have been covered by the BBC and New York Times. His new book is Warhead: How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If you enjoy the podcast, please show your support by making a $5 or $10 monthly donation.
skeptic.com/donate
#michaelshermer
#skeptic
Listen to The Michael Shermer Show or subscribe directly on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
skeptic.com/michael-shermer-show
