Warhead: How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain

'Lively, ingenious and original' – Sir Lawrence Freedman
'Eye-opening . . . a powerful argument' – Mail on Sunday

Discover the new science behind warfare. From Dr Nicholas Wright, leading neuroscientist and adviser to the Pentagon.

Why did France lose to the Nazis, despite its defenders having more tanks, troops, and guns? How did Ukraine repel Russia’s initial onslaught? How do you know if you can trust an ally? How can we make clearer decisions under pressure?

In Warhead, Nicholas Wright takes us on a fascinating journey through the brain to show you why, if you want to understand warfare, you must first look inside your own head. Drawing on his work as a neuroscientist, and over a decade advising the Pentagon and the UK Government, he reveals how, whether we like it or not, the brain is wired for conflict – in the office or on the battlefield.

With a unique framework that helps explain today’s rising tensions and how to defuse them, Warhead brings cutting-edge research to life through battle stories from across history. What was it like for a foot soldier at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815? How could Shaka Zulu or Winston Churchill see through the fog of conflict, make better decisions, and communicate with their troops? How will human conflict shape our future technologies?

In an increasingly dangerous world that threatens our values and success, Warhead is an essential read to understand why we fight, lose and win wars.

'A mind-expanding journey . . . invigorating, educational and entertaining' – Peter Pomerantsev, author of How to Win an Information War