E17S12 The Science of Change: Andres Casas on Leveraging Behavioral Science and Neuroscience for Social Good

Ready to see how behavioral science can drive social change? Check out Episode 17 of the Social Change Career Podcast, featuring Andres Casas. He combines neuroscience with policy, music, and activism to make a real impact. From redesigning infrastructure to changing narratives in conflict zones, Andres' story shows how diverse perspectives can build a better world. Be inspired, embrace new ideas, and see how science and society can work together for positive change + get tons of actionable insights for advancing your career.

Why Take a Listen

• Neuroscience and Social Change: Discover how Andres Casas transitioned from psychology and biology to neuroscience, using his expertise to influence decision-making processes and drive meaningful social change. Learn how neuroscience can be a powerful evidence based approach for changemaking.
• The Power of Narratives and Behavioral Science: Explore how Andres leverages competing narratives, conflict resolution, and identity reframing to create positive societal transformations.
• Creating Positive Impact Through Collaboration: Delve into the innovative programs Andres has launched and/or supported in Colombia and aorund the globe. See how collaborative efforts in behavioral science, technology, and community engagement can address local challenges and boost your career in social change. Plus hear some amazing stories from the frontlines of change.
• Career Insights: Learn from Andres' experience fostering impactful change through interdisciplinary approaches, great tips on career upskilling, research and much more.

Bio: Andrés Casas Casas is a distinguished expert in integrating brain and behavioral sciences to drive prosocial change through translational research and citizen science. He is currently a doctoral researcher pursuing dual Ph.D.s: one in Conflict Resolution and Management at the School of Social and Policy Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, under a postgraduate scholarship, and another in Neuroscience at the School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia, where he is an Award Fellow of the Academic Assistance Program Vice-Rectory.

As the founder of the Neuropaz initiative, Andrés brings together experts and communities to innovate in peace science. Since 2010, he has led the World Values Survey in Colombia and collaborated with the V-DEM Project. With a Master's in Behavioral and Decision Sciences from the University of Pennsylvania, a Master's in Philosophy, and extensive experience across Latin America, the US, Africa, and the Middle East, Andrés applies his expertise to public policy, social norms, and behavioral change communications, developing innovative interventions to overcome sociopsychological and cultural barriers. His consulting work spans these regions, focusing on applying behavioral science and technological innovations to create positive organizational dynamics and trust-building in weak institutional settings.

Key Resources from the Podcast

• Books and Authors:
  • Understanding the Process of Economic Change by Douglass North Link
  • Individual Institutions and Markets by Chrysostomos Mantavinos Link
  • Governing the Commons: The Evolution of Institutions for Collective Action by Elinor Ostrom Link
• Research and Influential Figures:
  • Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky: Pioneers in behavioral economics and psychology. Daniel Kahneman's profile | Amos Tversky's profile
  • Robert Cialdini: Known for his work on influence and social norms. Robert Cialdini's profile
  • Christina Bicchieri: Renowned for her research on social norms and social change. Christina Bicchieri's profile
• Key Projects and Programs:
  • World Values Survey: Andres Casas has served as the principal investigator for Colombia. World Values Survey
  • Europas Program in Colombia: Combines behavioral science, technology, and community engagement to address local challenges. Europas Program
• Notable Collaborations and Conferences:
  • Annual Behavioral Science Retreat in Colombia: Engages with local problems using behavioral science, technology, and community collaboration. NeuroPAUSE
• Influential Figures and Mentors:
  • Emil Bruno: Neuroscientist known for his work on the intersection of neuroscience and social change. Emil Bruno's profile
  • Rebecca Saxe: Neuroscientist at Harvard known for her work in field and lab research on hostility and violence. Rebecca Saxe's profile

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