There is nothing to fear but the amygdala: applying advances in the neuropsychiatry of fear to public policy

Lawrence Amsel (), Spencer Harbo () and Amitai Halberstam

Mind & Society: Cognitive Studies in Economics and Social Sciences, 2015, vol. 14, issue 1, 152 pages

Abstract: The last 25 years have seen advances in our understanding of the neuroscience and neuropsychiatry of fear. From the basic brain mechanisms of fear to new evidence-based treatments for the pathologies of fear, the field has experienced progress towards an understanding of the underpinnings of fear in the brain and its influence on behaviors. Yet, to date, there has been less than ideal incorporation of these new findings, insights and models into the public policy and economic domains. Even when notions of risk, uncertainty, and emotional decision-making are discussed, these discussions may not access insights from the latest contemporary neuroscience of fear, or clinical techniques in changing pathological fear responses. This paper will explore how a more complete incorporation of these advances may contribute to our understanding of fear and its management. Applying these advances in specific amenable policy areas may lead to new, more effective approaches to public and economic policies. Copyright The Author(s) 2015

Keywords: Fear; Emotion; Neuropsychiatry; Amygdala; Economics; Public policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2015
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DOI: 10.1007/s11299-014-0149-5

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