Dr. Rob Nelissen

Biography

Rob Nelissen is an associate professor and academic director at the Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, specifically in the Department of Social Psychology. He has a behavioral scientist background in evolutionary biology and applies an adaptive approach in his research to understand how environmental and social factors influence social exchange processes. Nelissen contends that individuals are naturally capable of forming relationships and organizing communities that promote collective well-being in a sustainable manner. However, he also acknowledges that modern societies are subject to conditions—such as resource abundance, competitive market status, and neoliberal belief systems—that can hinder these natural tendencies, leading to selfish behaviors. His scientific ambition is to identify factors that distort prosocial behaviors, culminating in myopic decisions that adversely affect collective interests. Throughout his career, Nelissen has supervised PhD students and participated in various research projects that examine the motivational properties of complex emotional states, including guilt, gratitude, vengeance, and hope. He began researching the implications of greed in conditions where social constraints are diminished due to resource abundance. His work employs a diverse methodological approach, which encompasses experimental studies, survey research, and theoretical analysis. As an educator, he aims to challenge students to question prevailing views on social issues, encouraging them to explore uncommon perspectives while developing their unique viewpoints on sustainable development and inequality.

Research Interests