Skip to content

Brain Quote by Steven Kotler

“When deeply religious subjects view sacred iconography or reflect on their notion of God, brain scans reveal hyperactivity in the caudate nucleus, a part of the pleasure system that correlates with feelings of joy, love, and serenity. But Lindstrom and Calvert found that this same brain region…” quote by Steven Kotler
Download Open image
““When deeply religious subjects view sacred iconography or reflect on their notion of God, brain scans reveal hyperactivity in the caudate nucleus, a part of the pleasure system that correlates with feelings of joy, love, and serenity. But Lindstrom and Calvert found that this same brain region lights up when subjects view images associated with strong brands like Ferrari or Apple.””

Steven Kotler

About This Quote

Source Book: The Science of Flow, 2020

Sacred images and strong brands activate the brain's pleasure center, linking spirituality and consumerism.

In simple terms: Both religious symbols and brands trigger joy in the brain.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how symbols influence emotions.

Themes

neuroscience spirituality consumer behavior

Mood

analytical curious

Type

scientific philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marketing
  • religious studies
  • mental health therapy

Key Concepts

reward circuitry cultural symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do brands shape your values?
  • Can spiritual experiences be commodified?
A Different Perspective

Pleasure response can be manipulated by commercial interests.

4.5 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Steven Kotler

Explore all 91 Steven Kotler quotes

More Brain quotes

Browse all 8,466 Brain quotes