Short Wave
Could 'Severance' Become Our Reality?
Mar 17, 2025
Dr. Vijay Agarwal, a neurosurgeon and science consultant for the hit series 'Severance,' dives deep into the fascinating intersection of neurotechnology and memory manipulation. He explores the ethical implications of altering memories and how these ideas parallel the show's themes. Agarwal discusses the tension between work and personal identity, questioning if true healing can happen when memories are erased. With advancements in neuroscience rapidly progressing, he believes we may soon tread the line between fiction and reality.
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast reveals that the scientific advancements in neurosurgery and neurotechnology may soon allow alterations to memory as depicted in Severance.
- Ethical concerns surrounding the manipulation of memories raise questions about true healing versus emotional avoidance in the context of trauma.
Deep dives
The Scientific Basis of Severance
The podcast explores the scientific underpinnings of the concept presented in Severance, focusing on how the show accurately represents neurosurgery and neurotechnology. Dr. Vijay Agarwal, a neurosurgeon and science consultant for the show, explains that the brain operates like a complex computer, where altering electrical inputs can change its function. The discussion highlights that current medical advancements involve stimulating specific areas of the brain, such as the amygdala and hippocampus, which are crucial for processing memories and emotions. This paves the way for a conversation about how close these fictional representations are to real medical possibilities.
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