Science Quickly
From the Internet’s Beginnings to Our Understanding of Consciousness, This Editor Has Seen It All
Apr 18, 2025
Gary Stix, the recently retired senior mind and brain editor at Scientific American, shares his remarkable journey through 35 years of science journalism. He discusses the transformative rise of the Internet and the evolution of neuroscience, focusing on brain mapping and cognitive enhancement. Stix highlights groundbreaking innovations like mini-brains in research and the ethical dilemmas they pose. He also dives into brain-machine interfaces for ALS patients and the potential of psychedelics in treating mental health, providing an insightful look at the past and future of science.
20:15
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of the internet has drastically shifted technology journalism, reflecting how initial perceptions can rapidly become outdated as advancements unfold.
- Neuroscience reporting is increasingly focusing on innovative treatments for conditions like depression and Alzheimer's, emphasizing the complexities of brain functionality and consciousness.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Technology Reporting
The landscape of technology journalism has significantly changed since the early 1990s, particularly with the rise of the internet. Initially, topics such as electronic communication focused on emerging platforms, with AOL considered a frontrunner for online engagement, highlighting the novelty of this technology at the time. The early coverage included predictions about the internet's potential to transform daily life and communication, which were far from the realities we experience today. Such reflections underscore the rapid pace at which technology evolves and how initial perceptions can become outdated as advancements occur.
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