Introduction
The “limbic brain” conspiracy theory suggests that governments or corporations exploit the brain’s emotional center to manipulate masses, especially via media or technology.
Origins
The limbic system concept dates to 1949 (Paul MacLean). Conspiracies exaggerate its role, claiming targeted ads, propaganda, and even “mind control” aim at our emotional brain.
Key Examples
- Targeted news designed to bypass rational thought.
- Use of colors, music, and imagery in advertising.
- Theory that mass hypnosis exploits the limbic brain.
Critical Analysis
Mainstream science finds the limbic system complex, but no proof supports claims of mass manipulation at this scale.
Influential Literature: Pro & Contra
- Paul D. MacLean – “The Triune Brain in Evolution” – Springer, 1990. MacLean, The Triune Brain in Evolution. Springer, 1990.
- Michael Barkun – “A Culture of Conspiracy” – University of California Press, 2013. Barkun, A Culture of Conspiracy. UCP, 2013.
- Jan Harold Brunvand – “Encyclopedia of Urban Legends” – W.W. Norton, 2001. Brunvand, Encyclopedia of Urban Legends. Norton, 2001.
- Daniel Goleman – “Emotional Intelligence” – Bantam, 1995. Goleman, Emotional Intelligence. Bantam, 1995.
- Antonio Damasio – “Descartes’ Error” – Putnam, 1994. Damasio, Descartes’ Error. Putnam, 1994.
- Jaron Lanier – “Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now” – Henry Holt, 2018. Lanier, Ten Arguments. Henry Holt, 2018.
- Lynne Kelly – “The Skeptic’s Guide to the Paranormal” – Allen & Unwin, 2004. Kelly, Skeptic’s Guide to the Paranormal. Allen & Unwin, 2004.
- David Clarke – “Supernatural” – Hodder & Stoughton, 2011. Clarke, Supernatural. Hodder, 2011.
- Colin Wilson – “The Occult” – Random House, 1971. Wilson, The Occult. RH, 1971.