Why do leaders sometimes make unexpected or counterintuitive decisions in times of crisis? In today’s episode, we explore how deeply rooted human instincts can influence global leadership—particularly by adopting inward-looking trade and policy decisions.

Drawing on two historical case studies, we examine well-intentioned efforts to protect local industries that ultimately led to unintended economic consequences. We also reflect on how similar patterns can emerge in today’s world, and how leaders can better navigate the delicate balance between protection and long-term prosperity.

As a leader, it’s crucial to pause and assess whether you’re reacting out of fear or from a place of strategy. Join me in this series to learn leadership strategies that can help you thrive under pressure. 

In this episode:

- Introducing the mini-series: Hidden Forces Behind Global Economic Slowdowns

- How evolutionary psychology influences trade wars

- Case study 1: Jefferson's Embargo Act of 1807

- Case study 2: The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930

- 3 leadership strategies to overcome fear

Order my book, Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/ 

Resources Used in the Episode: 

Van Vugt, M., & Ronay, R. (2014). The Evolutionary Psychology of Leadership. Organizational Psychology Review.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/274471020_The_evolutionary_psychology_of_leadership_Theory_review_and_roadmap  

Kahneman, D., & Tversky, A. (1979). Prospect Theory: An Analysis of Decision Under Risk. Econometrica, 47(2), 263–291 https://web.mit.edu/curhan/www/docs/Articles/15341_Readings/Behavioral_Decision_Theory/Kahneman_Tversky_1979_Prospect_theory.pdf 

Brosnan, S. F., & de Waal, F. B. M. (2003). Monkeys Reject Unequal Pay. Nature, 425, 297-299 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13679918/ 

Get in Touch: 

Website: https://www.mammothleadershipsciences.com    

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny 

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences