TED: The biology of our best and worst selves | Robert Sapolsky

Robert Sapolsky explores the complexity of human behavior, focusing on violence and altruism. He discusses the biological, environmental, historical, and evolutionary factors that influence behavior. Through examples of extraordinary human change, he highlights the potential for transformation and the importance of understanding the context of actions.

What paradox does Robert Sapolsky highlight about human attitudes towards violence?

• Humans are indifferent to violence.

• Humans only dislike certain types of violence.

• Humans dislike all forms of violence.

• Humans are inherently peaceful.

According to Sapolsky, what complicates our understanding of human behavior?

• The uniformity of human responses.

• The context in which behaviors occur.

• The lack of scientific research.

• The simplicity of human actions.

What role does the amygdala play in human behavior?

• It regulates hunger and thirst.

• It controls language and communication.

• It initiates responses related to fear and violence.

• It is responsible for logical thinking.

How does Sapolsky describe the interaction between genes and environment?

• Genes are more influential than environment.

• Genes and environment interact to shape behavior.

• Environment has no impact on genes.

• Genes solely determine behavior.

What does Sapolsky imply about the role of the frontal cortex in adolescence?

• It is the only part of the brain that changes during adolescence.

• It has no impact on behavior.

• It is underdeveloped and continues to mature into adulthood.

• It is fully developed by adolescence.

What historical example does Sapolsky use to illustrate the potential for rapid human change?

• The signing of the Magna Carta.

• The American Civil War.

• The World War I Christmas truce.

• The fall of the Berlin Wall.

What transformation did John Newton undergo?

• He was a scientist who became a theologian.

• He was a soldier who became a pacifist.

• He transitioned from a slave ship captain to an abolitionist.

• He became a famous musician.

What action did Hugh Thompson take during the My Lai Massacre?

• He ignored the events.

• He joined the soldiers in the massacre.

• He reported the events to the media.

• He intervened to stop the massacre.

What does Sapolsky suggest about the potential for change in human behavior?

• Change is impossible.

• Change is only possible over centuries.

• Change can occur rapidly under certain conditions.

• Change is solely dependent on genetics.

What is the main message of Sapolsky's conclusion?

• History is irrelevant to understanding behavior.

• Studying history and biology is crucial for understanding and replicating positive change.

• Human behavior is fixed and unchangeable.

• Only biology can explain human behavior.