The ideological mind... How do rigid beliefs harm our minds and bodies?

Why do some people radicalize? Who are most susceptible to ideological thinking? Can we free our minds from toxic beliefs? Drawing on her pioneering research, Dr. Lior Zmigrod reveals the hidden mechanisms that drive our beliefs and behaviors. She uses powerful neuroscience tools to show that our political beliefs are not just passing thoughts in our minds, disconnected from our bodies, but that ideologies actually change the structure of our brains and cells. For example, she shows how a simple card sorting game can reveal your whole approach to life. Cognitive inertia in such tasks—that is, difficulty adapting to new rules—reflects the inertia with which social and political ideologies are held. While some individuals are more prone to dogmatic thinking than others, we can all strive to be more flexible. The Ideological Brain is essential reading in today's polarized and polarized world. To foster a more aware, resilient, and free society, we need to delve into the processes that occur within each of us, and learn to uncover rigid thinking in ourselves and in others. We have to learn to avoid monolithic (black and white) thinking and embrace ambiguity. We must realize our ability to resist irrational rules and authority. Regardless of your political stance, this book will motivate you to reevaluate your convictions and their influence on your mind.