Glasp Talk Exploring Synesthesia Research and Digital Distractions with Richard E. Cytowic | Glasp Talk #11
This is the eleventh session of Glasp Talk! Glasp Talk delves deep into intimate interviews with luminaries from various fields, unraveling their genuine emotions, experiences, and the stories behind them. Today's guest is Dr. Richard E. Cytowic, a distinguished professor of Neurology at George Washington University. Dr. Cytowic is renowned for his groundbreaking work on synesthesia, a condition he brought back into the scientific mainstream against significant skepticism. He is the author of the award-winning book "Wednesday Is Indigo Blue" and a nominee for the prestigious Pulitzer Prize. In this interview, Dr. Cytowic discusses his journey from being labeled "philosophically minded" in the early days of his career to becoming a leading expert in higher cortical functions. He shares his experiences in studying synesthesia, the challenges he faced, and how his research has influenced our understanding of the brain's organization. Dr. Cytowic also delves into the implications of digital distractions on the Stone Age brain and offers insights into the future of neurology and cognitive research. Join us as we explore the intriguing world of neurology, synesthesia, and digital age challenges with Dr. Richard E. Cytowic. Timestamps: 0:03 - Introduction 0:46 - Dr. Cytowic's background and career journey 2:14 - Early interests in higher cortical functions 3:31 - Research on closed-head trauma and synesthesia 5:33 - Overcoming skepticism in the scientific community 9:09 - The significance of patient-centered medicine 11:11 - The impact of synesthesia research on neurology 14:02 - Genetic inheritance and prevalence of synesthesia 18:18 - Synesthesia in animals and early mammal development 20:29 - Relationship between synesthesia and memory 22:17 - Current research frontiers in synesthesia 24:37 - Daily life challenges and benefits of synesthesia 27:19 - Creativity and synesthesia among artists 28:05 - The concept of digital distractions and the Stone Age brain 32:12 - Strategies for managing screen addiction and maintaining productivity 35:26 - The role of AI in modern research and daily life 39:24 - Dr. Cytowic's personal use of AI and technology 40:50 - Future interests and current projects 43:00 - Advice for young scientists and the importance of curiosity 46:00 - Dr. Cytowic's upcoming book and social media challenges 47:37 - Reflections on international experiences and cultural translations 49:08 - Balancing scientific inquiry with artistic expression 51:16 - The importance of maintaining a sense of purpose Follow Richard E. Cytowic on social: • X • LinkedIn • Website Book, "Your Stone Age Brain in the Screen Age: Coping with Digital Distraction and Sensory Overload" Book, "Synesthesia: A Union of the Senses - Second Edition"
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Exploring Synesthesia Research and Digital Distractions with Richard E. Cytowic | Glasp Talk #11
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Exploring Synesthesia Research and Digital Distractions with Richard E. Cytowic | Glasp Talk #11
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Exploring Synesthesia Research and Digital Distractions with Richard E. Cytowic | Glasp Talk #11
Watch the full episode on YouTube:
Exploring Synesthesia Research and Digital Distractions with Richard E. Cytowic | Glasp Talk #11