Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection

Science Buff Lecture Series

You’ve likely heard that we’re facing a crisis of loneliness, but how does isolation truly affect the brain? In this talk with renowned social neuroscientist and author Ben Rein, PhD, we will explore the important biology behind our need to connect, drawing insights from his new book, Why Brains Need Friends.

• Why does isolation increase the risk of death by any cause?
• What are strategies to improve your social life to maximize benefits to your health?
• What is the science of likeability and the secrets of making a positive impression?

Dr. Rein’s talk and book highlight how headlines have made clear that we are in a crisis of loneliness, but the conversation has yet to explore how spending less time interacting can impact the body and mind on a cellular level—and why this knowledge is part of the way forward. Dr. Ben Rein dives into the fascinating science of social interaction, revealing how our brains are wired for connection and why modern life is challenging those ancient instincts.

All ages

$25 nonmembers; $5 members and students

Copies of Dr. Rein’s book will be available for $25 the day of the lecture while supplies last.

About Ben Rein, PhD
Dr. Ben Rein is a Stanford-trained neuroscientist, and one of the most well-known neuroscientists today with over 1 million social media followers. As a researcher, Ben has published over 20 scientific papers on how the brain navigates social interactions, and received prestigious awards from places like the NIH and the National Academies of Science. He is also a science communicator, known for making science clear and accessible. Ben has joined over 75 podcasts including StarTalk with Neil Degrasse Tyson (twice) and even Barstool Sports. He’s also been featured on Entertainment Tonight, been profiled by Popular Mechanics, and had his videos featured on Good Morning America. Last month, Ben published his debut book with Penguin Random House, which is called Why Brains Need Friends. The book, which explores the profound ways that connection shapes our health and our brains, has quickly become a best-seller, with features in the NY Times and Big Think, and a review in the Wall Street Journal. Best of all, Ben is a Buffalonian who grew up in Williamsville, did his PhD at SUNY Buffalo, and roots avidly for the Buffalo Bills. Learn more about Dr. Rein here.