Ri Science Podcast How climate change affects the brain - with Clayton Aldern and Sanjay Sisodiya
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Mar 26, 2025 
Join neuroscientist-turned-journalist Clayton Aldern and neurology expert Sanjay Sisodiya as they unravel the chilling effects of climate change on our brains. They dive into how extreme heat exacerbates neurological disorders and influences human behavior, including aggression and decision-making. The conversation explores memory’s role in shaping our perception of climate issues, shedding light on how forgetting can help us adapt. Discover the urgent need for research and collaboration to protect vulnerable populations from these escalating challenges.
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Climate as a Mental Model
- Climate is a human-defined statistical average and cultural expectation, not a direct physical experience.
- Our brains create models based on these expectations to minimize surprise and navigate the world effectively.
Forgetting Aids Climate Adaptation
- Forgetting is essential for updating memories and expectations to match environmental changes.
- Neuroscientists see forgetting as adaptive neuroplasticity responding to a changing climate.
Climate Risks for Neurological Disorders
- Neurological disorders complicate thermoregulation, making sufferers vulnerable to climate-induced heat stress.
- Medications and cognitive impairments add layers of risk in hot conditions for people with brain diseases.