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Scientific Lectures //

Title: The Moral Molecule

Paul Zak - Claremont Graduate University

Presented: March 19, 2013 

ABSTRACT: Why are people good or evil?  This talk reviews research from Dr. Zak's lab showing that insights moral emotions has a neurochemical foundation.  This research has demonstrated that oxytocin seems to function as a "moral molecule", responding to, and motivating, virtuous behaviors.  Virtue is assessed in the laboratory using neuroeconomics experiments that "follow the money" to gauge the degree of virtue.   The talk concludes with implications for psychopathology and law.

Information shared in this lecture was requested be held from public access. MRN employees can access the presentation here.

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