Neurobiology and Sociology: Passing Between a Rock and a Hard Place. [Rev.] Burton R. Mind vs Brain: The Conversation in Different Languages/ Transl. from Eng. to Russ. by Y.V. Ryabinina. Moscow: ‘E’ Publ., 2016

Abstract

Considered are certain theses from Robert A. Burton’s book, which could be useful for the development of a new research area — neurosociology. Analyzed are ideas on the social consequences of human brain functioning neural regularities revealed in neurobiological studies. These regularities show the biological nature of the following: (1) the sensation of personal space; (2) agentivity; (3) intention as a conscious process of choosing thoughts and actions; (4) perceiving information which is presented concisely and in a symmetrical manner as being correct, regardless of its contents; (5) variations in cognitive abilities of the members of different social groups; (6) high self-esteem associated with a low level of cognitive abilities and competencies. And finally, pointed out is the complexity of finding causal connections between social and neural levels. Following in the wake of the reviewed book’s author, we call for being cautious and skeptical when formulating any conclusions about social behavior based on currently available neuroscientific data.