Is the Paleomammalian Brain of Leaders an Immutable Barrier to Lasting World Harmony?

Abstract

This exploratory paper hypothesizes that sustained universal peace is inexorably limited by the human genetic drive to survive. National and corporate leaders need to be particularly aware of their powerful, persistent, reptilian brains, especially when making decisions in conflict situations with the nuclear button readily accessible. Brain structure can explain the complexity. On the one hand, the slower, problem-solving, rational, neo cerebral brain is in the frontal cortex. On the other hand, the paleomammalian, subjective, primeval brain is located in the limbic system. The paleomammalian brain is fast, self-centered, and protective. Its quickness dominates. The unfortunate corrosive sides of humanity emerge from the limbic system when survival is, or perceived to be, threatened. War, cruelty, hypocrisy and impossible fantasies manifest from this brain structure. Given that some leaders—Trump, Putin, and Kim Jong Un, have the nuclear code, the possibility of destroying humanity is real.