Drew Westen

Drew Westen, professor of psychology and psychiatry, is author of "The Political Brain: The Role of Emotion in Deciding the Fate of the Nation" (Public Affairs, 2007). For 20 years, Westen has explored the role of emotions in how the brain processes information. The "Political Brain" describes how a better understanding of the mind and brain translates into better campaign strategy and more compelling messages on the thorniest issues, from abortion to guns to race. Since the book's publication, Westen has advised or worked as a political consultant for presidential, congressional and state-level Democratic candidates, progressive and labor organizations and Fortune 500 companies.