Morpheus

From Speaking of Psychology

Why does music move us? With Robert Zatorre, PhD

Published
September 9, 2026
Length
49:56

Audio is streamed from the publisher.

Show notes

Why does music give many of us goosebumps, bring back vivid memories and make us want to dance -- but leaves some people cold? Robert Zatorre, author of “From Perception to Pleasure: The Neuroscience of Music and Why We Love It,” discusses how music engages the brain’s reward system; why expectation and surprise are a key part its appeal; what we can learn from musical anhedonia, or the inability to enjoy music; and how scientists are making strides in understanding music therapy and the healing potential of music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices