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StarTalk Radio

The Science of MDMA with Ben Rein

May 10, 2024
Neuroscientist Ben Rein discusses the neuroscience of empathy, psychopathy, and MDMA in the brain with Neil deGrasse Tyson. Topics include MDMA's impact on empathy, personal experiences post-9/11, transformative experiences, firefighters' empathy levels, MDMA in psychotherapy for PTSD, and the impact of social media on empathy.
46:38

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • MDMA aids in PTSD therapy by creating euphoric experiences to explore traumatic memories safely.
  • Social media lacks non-verbal cues essential for empathy, leading to amplified negative behaviors.

Deep dives

MDMA as a Therapeutic Tool for PTSD

MDMA is being explored and approved for the treatment of PTSD, providing a unique approach to psychotherapy. By creating a euphoric experience, MDMA allows individuals to explore traumatic memories without evoking intense negative emotions, aiding in the therapeutic process of addressing PTSD.

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