Prompt Cast
The Study of Nature vs. Nurture and the Role of Savants in Understanding Brain Function
TLDR A study conducted in the US involving separated twins, as well as the study of savants, particularly autistic savants, provide insights into the nature vs. nurture debate and the functions of the brain. Dr. Alan Snyder's theory on mindsets and the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy further contribute to our understanding of brain function.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
A study conducted in the United States involved separating twins who were up for adoption at birth as part of a study on nature versus nurture, and the results of the study are sealed until 2066.
03:24
Savants, particularly autistic savants, provide a natural experiment to study the brain because they excel in certain areas while being mentally deficient in others, due to left hemisphere brain damage.
06:48
Savants, who often have damage to the left side of the brain, provide an interesting opportunity to study the brain and its functions, and Dr. Alan Snyder has developed a theory about mindsets based on the lateralization of brain function.
10:04
Dr. Alan Snyder has developed a theory that people with left hemisphere brain damage, who tend to be savants, are unable to form mindsets and categorize information like those with a fully functioning left hemisphere.
13:18
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been used by Dr. Alan Snyder to enhance the electrical functions of the brain and has resulted in improved artistic and quantitative abilities in 40% of the people exposed to it.
16:24
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy has been found to improve drawing from memory, identifying prime numbers, and proofreading skills, but the effects only last for about an hour and may not occur at all.
19:50
A thinking cap won't make you a genius, but the podcast is launching a blog and listeners are encouraged to get active and participate in discussions.
Categories:
Society & Culture
