FOREWORD II

One of the most ancient questions is “Will I have dinner tonight or will I be dinner tonight?”

A man who left his cave would get the dinner, feed the family, and procreate even though there was a great possibility of becoming a dinner. Ancient areas of our brain genetically captured both of these possibilities. We get rewarded for taking the risk, and we get rewarded for escaping the danger. Achieving something or obtaining something we want makes us happy. But overcoming fears and escaping the danger is just as exhilarating. Reward and fear circuits are part of the ancient limbic system that is responsible for our emotional responses. As a neuroscientist and a researcher, I have studied these systems since 1972. I first engaged in animal research using brain stimulation in rats and cats during animal interaction. Later I studied how manipulation of neurochemistry by psychopharmacological agents changes animal behavior. For my work I received the gold medal for the best student scientific paper in Russia (formerly the USSR). Later I continued my studies at NYU, both in animals and humans.

During and after my residency at NYU and fellowship at UCLA, I continued my research of neuronal circuits using the latest imaging techniques, brain stimulation, and neuropharmacology. Many years of diversified research gave me a deep understanding of the intricate networks connecting gray matter nuclei in the deep subcortical areas that are responsible for the regulation of our emotions. Many neurotransmitters provide the smooth transition of signals from cell to cell within those circuits with dopamine, serotonin, and GABA among the most important. The balance between fear and reward with its many shades creates the colorful personality of the fearless risk takers and leaders who move the world. Of course, the intellect, the skill set, and creativity also play a role.

Michael Tennenbaum is one such risk taker and leader, and also a thinker, economist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur as his many adventures show. In this book, Michael moves from a boy growing up in a usual American immigrant family. Many of his peers were content with the small-town life. Contrary to that, he was driven to explore the world and his potential within the game of life. The book methodically takes us through his education and evolution into a fearless, tough competitor who can swim equally well with the business sharks of the investment ocean and real sharks in the deep sea.

Throughout the book Mr. Tennenbaum gives examples of other people who have been incredibly successful in their businesses and life accomplishments. He continuously asks a question: What makes a person a driven and fearless risk taker? What is characteristic of this group of people? His conclusion is that it is a specific state of mind, most likely determined by brain structures and neurochemistry. He also asserts in many examples given in the book that it is not only high drive and affinity to high risk–high reward, but also persistency and higher creativity expressed in clever problem solving. However, fearlessness and ability to derive the reward from escaping risky situations shows throughout the book. It is everywhere from betting on high-risk investments to racing full speed down expert ski runs even in his later years.

Throughout the book we are being presented with a brilliant analysis of the American economy and a guide to how to make the financial decisions that lead to success. At the same time, accumulation of fortune is not the final goal. He is being human, a family man with his share of marital and children issues. He also continues intellectual pursuits and supports arts and sciences ranging from UCLA to Smithsonian’s institutions. There again we observe the relentlessness and passion toward his interests.

This book is a fascinating story of never-ending travel full speed on the wonderful if sometimes curvy road that we call life. Enjoy.

Alexander Bystritsky, MD, PhD

Professor Emeritus, Director, Anxiety Program and Targeted Brain Stimulation, UCLA