Chapter 1: The Upside of Chaos

The tumult of 2020 has disrupted our cognitive routines, according to neuroscientist David Eagleman. Although there has been much discussion about the detrimental effects of pandemic-related stress on our brains, Eagleman offers a more optimistic perspective. He believes that, paradoxically, the chaos of this year might actually enhance our cognitive functions.

As the host of PBS’s The Brain, an adviser for HBO’s Westworld, and an accomplished author, Eagleman has recently released a new book titled Livewired: The Inside Story of the Ever-Changing Brain, which explores the remarkable adaptability of our brains. In a time that has tested our cognitive resilience, Elemental engaged Eagleman in a conversation about the mental shifts occurring in our lives.

> Elemental: To kick things off, David, is there a neuroscientific reason we find ourselves binge-watching our favorite shows?

Eagleman: Absolutely! Our brains thrive in the space between familiarity and novelty, and right now, many of us are gravitating toward the familiar as we've experienced an overload of novelty.

Have you been mindful of your mental health during these unprecedented times?

Indeed, one positive aspect of the pandemic is that it has disrupted our habitual routines, compelling us to explore new ways of thinking and behaving. This cognitive challenge is beneficial, as it exercises our brains more than usual.

What changes are occurring within our brains on a biological level?

For instance, research has shown that some elderly individuals who remained mentally active until death exhibited signs of Alzheimer’s during autopsy without ever realizing it in life. Despite the disease damaging their brain tissue, they continuously forged new neural pathways, maintaining their cognitive abilities. Conversely, those with rigid mental frameworks face more devastating consequences when their usual routes are disrupted.

Moreover, this time may prompt us to reevaluate our lives and behaviors. For frequent travelers, this period serves as an unexpected opportunity to reconsider their choices, potentially leading to greater wisdom and less habitual behavior.

Section 1.1: The Neuroscientific Advantage

Is understanding neuroscience akin to possessing a superpower? Does this knowledge provide you with an edge in life?

That's a fascinating question. While scientific knowledge doesn’t alleviate feelings of anger, hunger, or moodiness, it does help me recognize that I am not the same person at different moments. For example, I can make commitments to my future self, like discarding cookies I know I'll crave later or scheduling workouts with friends to stay accountable.

But anyone can adopt this mindset! It’s not exclusive to those in the field.

Subsection 1.1.1: Contracts with Your Future Self

Additionally, the concept of making contracts with your future self can apply to "doom scrolling." If you recognize that checking social media will make you feel worse, you can consciously choose to avoid it.

Chapter 2: Social Dynamics in Times of Crisis

In your work, you’ve mentioned that humans are inherently social beings, akin to honeybees in their capacity for cooperation. Given the current divisions over mask-wearing and other issues, do you still believe this notion holds true?

Absolutely! Humans are remarkably social creatures, and our civilization is built on our need for social connection. However, we also have a tendency to categorize ourselves into in-groups and out-groups. Experiments show that even witnessing another's pain activates empathetic responses in our brains, but this empathy is affected by group identity.