ABSTRACT

Why is one person motivated to create a business empire whilst another is inspired to produce a beautiful work of art? Why do some people prefer a quiet life?
The Psychobiology of Human Motivation explores what directs our behaviour, from basic physiological needs like hunger and thirst to more complex aspects of social behaviour like altruism. Hugh Wagner explores the limits of biological explanations and shows how humans can influence `basic' physiological drives in order to adapt to a complex social environment.

chapter 1|14 pages

Introduction and overview

chapter 2|20 pages

Essentials of human physiology

chapter 3|18 pages

Biological rhythms and sleep

chapter 4|14 pages

Homeostasis and drinking

chapter 5|20 pages

Hunger and eating

chapter 6|20 pages

Sex

chapter 7|14 pages

Aggression

chapter 8|16 pages

Reward and addiction

chapter 9|16 pages

Cognitive and social motives