Why do humans fight, lose and win wars?
From the latest book by Dr Nicholas Wright, a leading neuroscientist and advisor to the Pentagon, discover a new perspective on the human brain and on war.
Warhead journeys through the brain to show us how it shapes human behaviour in conflict and war. Cutting-edge research comes to life through battle stories from history: What was it like for American or Chinese foot soldiers in World War Two? Courage, leadership, deception, cooperation… The brains with which we live our everyday lives are built for conflict: in the office or on the battlefield.
In an increasingly dangerous world that threatens our values and success, we must harness this knowledge to protect our way of life.
Because self-knowledge is power.
Praise for Warhead
“Remarkable.”
— Karl Friston, Professor of Neuroscience, University College London
“A mind-expanding journey through the literal war for our minds… Invigorating, educational and entertaining.”
— Peter Pomerantsev, Senior Fellow, Johns Hopkins University and award-winning author of How to Win an Information War and Nothing is True and Everything is Possible
“Unique… Highly recommended.”
— Sir David Omand, War Studies Department King’s College London and former Director of GCHQ
“Lively, ingenious and original.”
— Sir Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies, King’s College, London
“Distinctive and fascinating.”
— Chris Frith, Emeritus Professor of Neuropsychology, University College London, and author of Making up the Mind: How the Brain Creates our Mental World
"The book about war I’ve always wanted to read.”
— Nolan Peterson, Nonresident Senior Fellow, the Atlantic Council, former Air Force Special Operations pilot
About Nick
Dr Nicholas Wright, MRCP, PhD is 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, where he also advises the Pentagon Joint Staff.
He works with governments and the private sector. 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. He has appeared on CNN and the BBC, and regularly contributes to outlets like Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, the Atlantic, and Slate.