Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst by Robert Sapolsky

From the hallowed halls of Stanford to the great plains of Africa, scientist Robert Sapolsky has utilized his diverse environs to conduct research on the biological context of human behavior. In his book, Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst, Sapolsky calls upon readers to delve deeply into the chemistry and biology of human interactions.

Framed around the idea of “the forest and the trees”, Sapolsky attempts to illustrate the complexities of human behavior and its environmental context - the molecular up to the societal level. He shows this concept through anatomical studies regarding hormones and the relationships between neurological pathways, genetics and hormones, and culture influences that underpin our behavior. Sapolsky argues that true understanding of behavior is predicated upon examining it from a biological and chemical perspective, not just philosophical or psychological.

Sapolsky also explains the relationship between human behavior, genetics, and hormones, illustrating the effects of hormones such as cortisol, oxytocin, and endorphins. He further details how these hormones affect behavior, emotions and cognition, providing biological illustrations to explain their influence. In particular, he illustrates how cortisol and oxytocin can shift one's willingness to cooperate and interact with others.

Sapolsky further examines the power of culture and how it can dramatically shape our behavior. He explains the various cultural norms that are embraced, such as values, mores, and ethics, and how they can create unique behavior patterns. He notes that culture can and often does have an impact upon our behavior. This can be seen in the power and influence of religious beliefs, racial differences and even corporate culture.

In his book, Sapolsky provides an insightful perspective on the biological context of human behavior. He explores various facets of human behavior ranging from the neurochemical to the cultural to illustrate how they interact and combine to form our unique personalities and behaviors. Sapolsky argues that it is only when one has a full understanding of the elements that influence our behavior, from the molecular up to the societal level, that we can truly be at our best and worst.

And in a world increasingly defined by its many challenges, Sapolsky’s insights provide a greater understanding of the importance of understanding the very biology of our behavior. By doing so, we can make the necessary adjustments and changes to our behavior, thus heralding better and more productive societal outcomes.

If you’re interested in exploring the biology of human behavior and its many facets, then Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst by Robert Sapolsky is a must read. Not only does it provide an easy to understand overview of complex biological concepts, its also calls upon us to take a more active role in understanding and regulating our behavior, and that of those around us.