ABSTRACT
This chapter considers what the changing understandings of human nature mean in relation to how subjects are governed and how they self-govern. It discusses the relationships between neuroliberalism and character in the context of broader historical and theoretical discussions of psychological government and the self. The Social Brain Centre (Sbc) essentially makes the political assertion that empowering forms of behaviour change can only be achieved if people have the opportunity to experience effective forms of social learning. The Sbc suggests that through practices of neurological reflexivity and the opening up of new opportunities for everyday behavioural learning, the neuroliberal self can achieve personal change and development, but can also be an agent of broader forms of social transformation. The chapter focuses on the analysis of human agency and character to consider the ways in which neuroliberalism is challenging and redefining liberal understandings of freedom.
