David Eagleman, a Stanford neuroscientist and CEO of Neosensory, shares fascinating insights into the brain's plasticity and sensory substitution. He discusses how our wrists can be trained to interpret sound, enhancing experiences for the deaf. The conversation delves into the purpose of dreams, suggesting they help protect our visual systems. Eagleman also tackles the intriguing concept of Possibilianism and its role in understanding existence, intertwining philosophy with technology in a thought-provoking way.
David Eagleman emphasizes the brain's extraordinary plasticity, highlighting its ability to reorganize and adapt continuously to experiences.
Eagleman explores sensory substitution technology, showcasing how devices can enable the deaf to perceive sound through tactile sensations.
The significance of REM sleep is discussed as a crucial factor in maintaining brain function and safeguarding against sensory deprivation.
Deep dives
Defining Wealth Beyond Money
Wealth is often perceived in monetary terms, but true richness encompasses much more. It includes having meaningful stories to share and the ability to spend quality time with loved ones. The concept of being rich also involves the freedom to travel and explore different cultures, which contributes to personal growth and satisfaction. Recognizing what really matters in life, such as relationships and experiences, is pivotal in redefining the meaning of being rich.
Brain Plasticity and 'Live Wiring'
The human brain's extraordinary ability to adapt, known as plasticity, is redefined by David Eagleman as 'live wiring.' This term highlights how our brain continuously reorganizes itself in response to experiences and the environment. Unlike fixed structures, the brain remains flexible, absorbing influences from culture, surroundings, and personal interactions throughout life. Such adaptability is exemplified by the brain's capacity to recover from severe injuries, such as a hemispherectomy, demonstrating its resilience.
Neuroscience and Echolocation
Eagleman explores how individuals, particularly the blind, utilize echolocation to navigate their environments through sound. By making specific noises, such as clicks, they can discern distances and obstacles, effectively creating a mental map from sound reflections. This skill showcases the brain's remarkable adaptability, with areas traditionally associated with sight being repurposed for auditory processing. Studies show that even sighted individuals can quickly adapt to using echolocation through training, illustrating the brain's potential for rapid reconfiguration.
The Role of REM Sleep
Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep is essential for brain function, acting as a defense mechanism against sensory deprivation during the night. Eagleman posits that during this sleep stage, random electrical activity stimulates the visual cortex, enabling the brain to maintain its wiring and protect its processing capabilities. The amount of REM sleep correlates with a species' brain plasticity; more plastic brains require greater amounts of dream sleep. This counteracts potential sensory takeover, ensuring the visual system remains functional despite prolonged darkness.
Sensory Substitution and Neurotechnology
Eagleman discusses the concept of sensory substitution, using technology to create new pathways for receiving information when one sense is impaired. His company, Neosensory, innovates by allowing deaf individuals to perceive sound through vibrations on their skin, transforming auditory input into tactile sensations. Such devices harness the brain’s flexible structure, enabling individuals to interpret environmental cues in novel ways. Future developments in this field may bridge gaps in sensory perception and improve quality of life for those with disabilities.
David Eagleman is a Stanford neuroscientist, C.E.O., television host, and founder of the Possibilianism movement. He and Steve talk about how wrists can substitute for ears, why we dream, and what Fisher-Price magnets have to do with neuroscience.
SOURCE:
David Eagleman, professor of cognitive neuroscience at Stanford University and C.E.O. of Neosensory.
