A study investigated the evolution of social norms across 90 societies, finding a global trend toward more permissive norms overall, except for behaviors considered vulgar or inconsiderate, and linking these norms to underlying moral values.
A new scientific review maps the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind memory formation, consolidation, generalization, and updating, revealing how memories are stored, altered, and even manipulated in the brain. Key breakthroughs allow scientists to visualize and activate specific neurons involved in memory, offering deeper insight into how learning occurs and how fear memories may become overgeneralized in disorders like PTSD.
New research reveals that chronic brain inflammation can directly lead to repetitive behaviors, often seen in conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The study, conducted on mice with a mutated NLRP3 gene, found that inflammation activated microglia, leading to IL-1β release and overstimulation of NMDA glutamate receptors, resulting in anxiety and repetitive actions. FDA-approved drugs memantine and interleukin-1RA were shown to normalize brain activity and stop these behaviors.
LLMs as cognitive archaeologists, excavating the lost civilizations of thought. The article discusses how large language models preserve fragments of human cognition, the collapse of time within them, the persistence of bias and outdated ideas, and the need for human curation of AI's memory.
An international study suggests our brains and bodies physically resonate with music, supporting Neural Resonance Theory (NRT). NRT proposes musical experiences arise from the brain's natural oscillations syncing with rhythm, melody, and harmony, influencing timing, pleasure, and movement. Potential applications include therapies for stroke, Parkinson's, and depression, emotionally intelligent AI, and new learning technologies.
Despite widespread computer training, many individuals still struggle with basic computer tasks. This study suggests that cognitive abilities, specifically fluid intelligence, are a stronger predictor of computer skill than the amount of training received. The research indicates that inherent intelligence plays a more crucial role in computer literacy than previously believed, challenging the focus on simply providing more training.
The four-sides model (also known as communication square or four-ears model) is a communication model postulated in 1981 by German psychologist Friedemann Schulz von Thun. It posits that every message has four facets: factual content, self-disclosure, relational aspect, and an appeal or plea.
This article explores the connection between strategic thinking in games like chess, the behaviors of manipulators (like drug dealers), and the neurological basis of 'theory of mind' – our ability to understand others' perspectives. A recent study suggests a link between forward-thinking and manipulation, with brain activity during negotiation mirroring that seen in chess players.
A new study reveals that people with lower self-awareness about their own decision accuracy show stronger brain responses to morally charged political issues, potentially explaining why some political beliefs are so rigid.
A new MIT study shows that both humans and animals continue to explore different approaches to a task even after learning the optimal strategy, due to potential benefits of discovering new, better alternatives or adapting to changes in the environment.
