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Unlock the potential to transform fear into courage and enhance empathy with Abigail Marsh, speaker, neuroscientist and author.


Abigail Marsh is a prominent expert in the psychology of fear and courage, with a focus on understanding how these emotions can be harnessed to foster empathy and altruism. As an award-winning neuroscientist, she has dedicated her career to exploring the intricate mechanisms that underpin human behaviour and social connections. Abigail serves as the director of Georgetown University’s Laboratory on Social and Affective Neuroscience, where her research contributes significantly to the field of psychology.
Abigail's journey into the world of neuroscience was driven by a desire to understand the complexities of human emotions and their impact on social interactions. Throughout her career, she has faced various challenges, including the need to navigate the often intricate relationship between fear and altruism. Her work has led to groundbreaking insights that have implications for both individual and societal well-being.
In addition to her research, Abigail is the acclaimed author of "The Fear Factor," published in 2017, which delves into the role of fear in shaping human behaviour. Her contributions to the field have been recognised through numerous awards, highlighting her influence and commitment to advancing our understanding of the human mind.
Abigail's expertise is not only rooted in her academic achievements but also in her ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible manner. Her insights into the psychology of fear and courage offer valuable perspectives for anyone interested in personal development, social dynamics, and the science of human behaviour. Through her work, she continues to inspire others to explore the potential of fear as a catalyst for positive change and deeper connections with others.
frequently asked questions
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Email abigail.marsh@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Abigail's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
Abigail Marsh draws on her neuroscience research and findings from her book The Fear Factor to frame talks around the psychology of fear and altruism, grounding her presentations in data from her Georgetown University laboratory.
Abigail Marsh specialises in the psychology of fear and courage, the neuroscience of empathy and altruism, and the social dynamics of human behaviour. She is director of Georgetown University's Laboratory on Social and Affective Neuroscience and author of The Fear Factor (2017).
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