The Whole-Brain Path to Peace

Are you managing your brain or is your brain managing you?

Science has long understood the significance of brain lateralization. Researchers now know that each hemisphere provides contrasting but complimentary perspectives, and that each side deeply conditions our perceptions. Behavioral neuroscientists also observe that one perspective will tend to rule: For example, the “holistic, compassionate” right brain dominates in most women, while the “analytical, dualistic” left brain is operative in most men. Other pairings naturally show up: Democrats tend to be right brain and inclusive; Republicans are predominantly left brain and individualistic. Those who live a spiritual or holistic lifestyle draw primarily from the right brain; analytical scientists or businesspeople draw mainly from the left hemisphere. It follows that—if we are to better understand and manage our lifestyle, our culture, and its politics—we must better manage our brain’s two hemispheres, rather than let its natural tendencies manage us.

These are not simple matters. In fact, the conundrum of brain lateralization sent James Olson, into 18 years of deep study and meditation.

Author, James Olson is an independent philosopher and integrative thinker. His book: The Whole Brain Path to Peace: The Role of Left- and Right-Brain Dominance in the Polarization and Reunification of America. is the recipient of FOUR national book awards: Foreword Reviews Book of the Year (Gold in Philosophy, 2012), Natulils (Silver in Social Change, 2012), Independent Publisher IPPY (Bronze in Psychology/Mental Health, 2012) and Eric Hoffer (Honorable Mention, in Self Help, 2011).