Conference 2014 video. Prof Ian Robertson: The winner effect – the neuropsychology of power

“Approach and avoidance are fundamental human urges – approaching things we need, like food or sex, and avoiding things that will destroy us. ….The ‘approach’ system of the brain is more closely linked to the dopamine system of the brain… and when you are in a position of power, it activates the brain’s ‘approach’ system.”

Professor Ian Robertson, Founding Director of Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience and Chair in Psychology at Trinity College, Dublin discusses ‘The winner effect – the neuropsychology of power’. Recorded at the Daedalus Trust-RSM conference ‘Leadership; stress and hubris’ in London, November 2014.