You Are Not So Smart 083 - Idiot Brain - Dean Burnett
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Aug 25, 2016 In this lively discussion, neuroscientist Dean Burnett, a lecturer at Cardiff University and author of 'Idiot Brain', unpacks the chaotic workings of our minds. He explores the perplexities of motion sickness and the neuroscience behind breakups, revealing why criticisms hit harder than praise. Burnett dives into the quirks of the human brain, such as irrational fears, the imposter syndrome, and the irony of feeling unsafe in a statistically safer world. With a mix of humor and insight, he likens the brain to a glitchy computer, making for an entertaining and thought-provoking conversation.
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Why Motion Sickness Exists
- Motion sickness arises from sensory conflict between inner ear balance signals and visual/body cues.
- The brain treats that mismatch as poisoning and triggers vomiting to 'reboot'.
Brains Aren't Like Designed Computers
- The 'brain as computer' metaphor misleads because brains evolved via trial and error.
- Memory and processing are malleable and inefficient compared to designed machines.
Negativity Feels More Real Than Data
- The brain prioritizes vivid emotional events over abstract statistical improvements.
- Media and social feeds amplify rare negative events, making the world feel more dangerous.
