Tech and Science Daily | The Standard Neuroscience discovery reveals how bad habits are formed
May 15, 2025
Neuroscientists in London have uncovered a second learning system in the brain that may redefine how we understand habit formation, with implications for battling addictions and Parkinson's disease. There's a push for stronger regulations on Big Tech, and we might have a title for the Super Mario Bros. sequel. Meanwhile, urban trees in London are suffering from climate change, and NASA reveals intriguing findings about the Moon's temperatures. Lastly, a brown bear named Boki makes a heartwarming recovery after surgery, reuniting with friends.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Dual Systems in Habit Formation
- The brain has two learning systems: value-based and frequency-based learning systems.
- Frequency-based learning encourages repeating actions often performed, explaining habit formation.
New Dopamine Signal Identified
- In addition to reward prediction error, the brain uses Action Prediction Error (APE) to learn frequency of actions.
- These dual dopamine signals help us choose based on value or habit frequency.
Pret Sandwich Habit Example
- Picking a sandwich repeatedly at Pret demonstrates frequency-based learning in action.
- Initially you choose by value, then habit formation takes over by frequency of past actions.