Joseph LeDoux is Professor of Neural Science and Psychology at NYU, and Professor of Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Langone. He’s one of the world’s leading neuroscientists, best known for his groundbreaking work on fear, anxiety, and the brain’s survival circuits. He’s also the author of books including The Emotional Brain and The Four Realms of Existence, and the frontman of The Amygdaloids, a rock band of scientists.

On August 21 at 7:30 p.m., the Callicoon Theater will host a special screening of Werner Herzog’s documentary Theater of Thought, which explores the mysteries of the mind and consciousness and was partially filmed right here in Cochecton. After the film, LeDoux will join Colin Dempsey for a talkback moderated by Jason Tougaw, followed by a live musical performance.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Joseph LeDoux about what it means to face our fears, why the brain is wired the way it is.