Fight or flight? How our brain decides our response to danger | Daniel Glaser

The neuroscience behind whether we run or stand our ground when faced with threat

Londoners will always use humour as the ultimate response to terror attacks. Nowhere was this more apparent than with the Millwall supporter, knifed eight times after tackling the London Bridge terrorists, pictured recovering in hospital with a copy of Learn to Run. A gift from friends, the joke being he would have been safer sprinting away.

Neuroscientists would say the choice to run or stay put isn't that simple. A 'fight or flight' response kicks in when our threat-detection systems prepare the body for action with neuronal and hormonal changes. We're all familiar with these symptoms; a flood of adrenaline, heart pounding and pupils dilating. These will prepare you to stand your ground or beat a hasty retreat, depending on the threat.