Building High-Performance Organizations Using Neuroscience
Credited with the first published use of the term "neuroeconomics," Paul J. Zak is a vanguard in this new discipline. He organized and administers the first doctoral program in neuroeconomics and is the founding director of the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies and professor of economics, psychology, and management at Claremont Graduate University. Zak also serves as professor of neurology at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He has degrees in mathematics and economics from San Diego State University, a Ph.D. in economics from University of Pennsylvania, and post-doctoral training in neuroimaging from Harvard.
In 2004, Zak's lab discovered that the brain chemical oxytocin allows us to determine whom to trust and his research has shown that oxytocin is responsible for virtuous behaviors, working as the brain's "moral molecule." This knowledge is being used to understand the basis for civilization and modern economies, improve negotiations, and treat patients with neurologic and psychiatric disorders. Zak's work on oxytocin and relationships has earned him the nickname "Dr. Love" and his book The Moral Molecule: The Source of Love and Prosperity was published in 2012 and was a finalist for the Wellcome Trust Book Prize.
Zak's current work applies neuroscience to improve marketing and consumer experiences, and to build high performance organizations.
View Video: YouTube with Paul Zak
Food for Thought: Podcast with Paul Zak