The Giants Shoulder

Dr. Kevin Smith studies the biology and psychology of individual-level differences in political attitudes and behaviour. In this conversation, Dr. Kevin Smith discusses the intersection of psychophysiology and political behavior, exploring how individuals respond to political stimuli and the physiological and psychological impacts of political stress. Skip to parts that interest you 00:00 Intro 02:23 Introduction to Psychophysiology and Political Responses 05:22 The Impact of Political Stimuli on Mental Health 08:19 The Role of Social Media in Political Stress 11:23 Political Stress Across Different Countries 14:17 Evolutionary Perspectives on Political Stress 17:27 Differences in Stress Responses: Left vs. Right 20:15 Physiological Measurements in Political Psychology 23:21 Genetics and Political Ideology 26:24 The Neuroscience of Emotion in Politics 29:23 Causality: Genetics vs. Environment in Political Beliefs 45:03 The Connection Between Olfaction and Political Orientation 47:51 Biological Markers and Political Engagement 54:57 Neuro-Politics: Brain Differences in Ideology 01:43 Understanding Polarization and Tribalism 01:11:50 Changing Minds: The Psychology of Belief 01:20:21 Politics as a Process: A Perspective on Stress To Support the Channel - Get 56% off your first subscription to MAGIC MIND. The health shot to help you enter flow - https://www.magicmind.com/evanmc Follow My Neuroscience Podcast - The Giants Shoulder Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5m3Gta5MtIYdk59pb2GJ7M?si=b33232eae67b4126 Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/brief-enquiry-to-the-brain/id1752486249 My Startup weeve - https://www.weeve.ie/ My Socials X - https://twitter.com/evan_mcgl LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-mcgloughlin/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/evan_mcgloughlin/

Tony Zador is a Computational Neuroscientist from the Cold Harbour Springs Laboratory who is attempting the gargantuan task of modelling all the connections in the human brain using a fascinating and novel approach that he developed. Using Viruses! Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:36 - Introduction to Connectomics 05:00- The Ambitious Goal of Mapping Neural Circuits 11:20 - Insights into the Human Brain from Connectomics 27:58 - Delivery of Barcoded Viruses to Neurons 34:11 - Output and Findings of Connectomics Research 41:24 - Discovering the Randomness of Brain Wiring 47:35 - Randomness in Brain Development 52:18 - The Third Component in the Nature-Nurture Debate 57:06 - The Impact of Language Deprivation 01:07:15 - Understanding Emotions as Persistent States 01:16:13 - Exploring the Intersection of Neuroscience and AI 01:20:44 - The Challenge of Energy Efficiency in AI Systems 01:31:23 - Unraveling the Principles of Neural Circuits 01:34:45 - Key Differences between Biological and Artificial Neural Networks 01:38:39 - The Limitations of Data and Compute 01:42:36 - The Answer Isn't More Data 01:44:55 - The Exciting Potential of Neuroscience and AI Collaboration 01:48:23 - The Importance of Making the Same Mistakes 01:55:18 - The Evolutionary Curriculum Approach Dr. Tony Zador discusses the field of connectomics and his novel approach to studying neural circuits. He explains that the connectome is the wiring diagram of a neural circuit and that understanding how a circuit is wired can provide insight into how it functions. Dr. Zador got interested in connectomics after recognizing the importance of understanding neural circuitry in neuroscience. He developed a new technology that uses barcoded viruses to fill neurons with unique DNA sequences, allowing for the mapping of neural connections. This approach has provided insights into the wiring patterns of the brain and the principles of brain circuitry. The conversation explores the role of randomness in brain development and the implications for understanding the nature-nurture debate. It delves into the concept of emotions and how they emerge from neural circuits. The discussion also touches on the intersection of neuroscience and AI, particularly in terms of energy efficiency and mimicking the brain's computational processes. In this conversation, Tony Zador discusses the intersection of neuroscience and AI. He highlights the importance of understanding the principles of neural circuits and how they wire up in order to advance AI. Zador also explores the potential of brain organoids and the insights they can provide into neural development and behavior. He emphasizes the need for collaboration between neuroscience and AI to unlock new possibilities and address challenges. Zador shares his excitement about the evolutionary curriculum approach and the study of sparse neural activity. He also expresses concerns about economic disruption and the need for better communication of science to the general public.

Dr Tara Spires Jones is one of the leading Alzheimers disease researchers in the entire world and is the current president of the British Neuroscience Association and Director of the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences at the University of Edinburgh. Timestamps 00:00 Intro 04:15 Understanding Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia 08:52 The Role of Amyloid and Tau Pathology 10:46 Advancements in Alzheimer's Research 23:43 Promoting Brain Resilience through a Healthy Lifestyle 30:21 The Influence of Genetics on Alzheimer's Risk 35:07 Genome-wide Association Studies and Alzheimer's Risk Genes 42:44 The Role of Tau in Alzheimer's Pathology 47:51 Early Detection and Intervention in Alzheimer's 53:22 Current Treatments and the Need for Funding

Robert Plomin is a prominent behavioural geneticist known for his pioneering work in the field of psychology and genetics. His research has significantly advanced our understanding of how genetic and environmental factors contribute to individual differences in behaviour, personality, and cognitive abilities. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction to Behavioral Genetics 08:47 The DNA Revolution: Studying Genetic Influence 18:57 The Nature of Nurture: Non-Shared Environment 30:34 Recognizing the Biological Component 39:36 Predicting Behavior with DNA 44:40 The Interaction of Genetics and Environment 53:23 Cultural Variations in Heritability 01:01:17 The Development of Similarity in Twins 01:14:03 The Overlap of Genetic Factors in Psychiatric Disorders 01:20:34 Understanding Traits as Quantitative Rather Than Qualitative 01:54:16 The Influence of Parents in Child Development 01:59:35 The Limited Control of Parents 02:08:23 DNA Dating and DNA Augmentation 02:16:59 Concerns about Data Breaches and Genetic Caste Systems 02:32:27 Equal Opportunity and Social Mobility in Genetics

Dr Mark Humphries has dedicated his scientific career to studying the spike, the fundamental way that neuron's in the brain communicate with each other. Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 03:17 - The Spike: The Language of the Brain 02:58 - From Basic Movements to Higher Cognitive Abilities 06:56 - The Adaptability of Neurons: Genes and the Environment 17:03 - Transforming Perception with Sensory Substitution and Augmentation 21:04 - Ethical Considerations in Neurotechnology 26:36 - Creating an Optimal Environment for Brain Health 48:42 - Early Experiments on Social and Environmental Factors 50:46 - Language Acquisition and Multilingualism 53:25 - Designing Environments for the Elderly 56:50 - The Brain as a Multi-Layer Neural Network 01:15:38 - Exploring Dark Neurons 01:20:00 - The Future of Neuroscience: High-Resolution Voltage Imaging Check out his Book The Spike: An Epic Journey Through the Brain in 2.1 Seconds: https://amzn.to/3X4Jpio

Luke O'Neill is a renowned Irish immunologist whose groundbreaking research and charismatic public engagement have made significant contributions to the field of immunology and science communication. Born in Dublin, Ireland, O'Neill has become a prominent figure in both the academic world and the public eye, known for his expertise in inflammation, infectious diseases, and innate immunity. 00:00 Intro 04:13 - The Role of Scientific Communication During the Global Pandemic 07:25 - Providing Hope and Reassurance in Times of Fear and Uncertainty 17:39 - Lessons Learned: Ventilation, Masks, and Vaccines in Controlling Pandemics 22:49 - Bridging the Gap: Communicating Research Papers to a General Audience 29:26 - The Importance of Education in Science Communication 34:06 - Country Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic 36:21 - The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health 43:13 - Understanding Long COVID 46:21 - The Success Story of Inflazome 54:36 - The Fascinating World of Scientific Communication and Origins of Life Luke's is an Incredible Author: To Boldly Go Where No Book Has Gone Before: A Joyous Journey Through All of Science: https://amzn.to/4dxd5Kx The Great Irish Science Book: https://amzn.to/3WOQWSb Humanology: A Scientist's Guide to our Amazing Existence: https://amzn.to/3SyAenA Never Mind the B#ll*cks, Here's the Science: https://amzn.to/3SXOTZZ Keep Calm and Trust the Science: An Extraordinary Year in the Life of an Immunologist: https://amzn.to/3WOReIL Show Me the Science: Life’s Biggest Questions and How Science Answers Them: https://amzn.to/3Ywyxeq

Dr Laura Andreae is a Developmental Neuroscientist from King’s College London. She has conducted pioneering research into how our synaptic circuits are laid down during development, basically how we are wired from childhood how our neuron’s link up in specific critical ways at critical times to make us, us. She is also a world foremost expert in the development of autism and intellectual disorders at a synapse level. 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:17 Understanding Brain Development and Wiring 00:09:31 Debunking Misconceptions about Autism 00:12:30 The Uncertain Impact of Social Media on Brain Development 00:16:41 Exploring the Differences in Male and Female Brain Development 00:28:00 Identifying Specific Circuits and Pathways in Autism 00:38:06 The Importance of Collaboration in Autism Research 00:50:48 The Manifestation of Autism in Males and Females 00:58:23 The Role of Genetic Changes in Autism 01:01:12 Improving Integration and Support for Individuals with Autism 01:08:52 Understanding the Link Between Genetic Changes and Behavior 01:12:42 The Potential of Brain-Machine Interfaces and Gene Therapy 01:17:56 Concerns about AI and Employment 01:23:27 The Need for Collaboration and Understanding in Neuroscience In this podcast we discuss the neural mechanisms of autism, how autism is a superpower in many and what our society can do better to support people with developmental disorders, and how we can best leverage their brilliance for the benefit of humanity.

Dr Hugo Spiers is a cognitive Neuroscientist from University College London. He has spent over 25 years studying our spatial navigation system and memory. He has published over 160 research papers on whats actually happening in the brain when we are moving from one place to another, something we all take for granted but is quite remarkable brain system that we all use every day. I learned personal things in this podcast about what my awful sense of direction means for me, why I should try to improve and just an incredible amount about the incredible brain systems we employ to navigate around our world. 00:00 Intro 03:44 Introduction to Spatial Navigation and Brain Structure 06:19 The London Taxi Driver Study and Brain Structure 11:13 The Relationship Between Hippocampus Size and Navigation 16:34 The Role of Different Brain Regions in Spatial Memory 19:50 Habits and Autopilot Behavior in Spatial Memory 35:19 Genetic Factors and Spatial Navigation 39:11 Visualization and Motor Cortex Interaction 43:21 Genetic Components of Spatial Navigation 48:37 The Health Benefits of Challenging Spatial Navigation Skills 54:10 The Future of Neuroscience and Technology Dr. Hugo Spears discusses the neuroscience of spatial navigation and the correlation between brain structure and spatial navigation abilities. While there is still much we don't know, studies have shown that individuals with larger hippocampi tend to be better navigators. The famous London taxi driver study demonstrated that licensed taxi drivers have larger posterior hippocampi, suggesting that training and experience can impact brain structure. However, there is still debate about the extent to which brain structure influences spatial navigation abilities. Additionally, the brain's spatial memory system involves the parietal cortex for organizing the structure of the world, the hippocampus for allocentric processing, and the striatum for forming habits and autopilot behavior. The conversation explores the topic of spatial navigation and its neural mechanisms. It discusses how the brain maps space and the role of the hippocampus in creating a map of our surroundings. The conversation also touches on the genetic components of spatial navigation and the potential health benefits of actively improving our navigation skills. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of neuroscience and technology, highlighting the potential dangers of automated drones and the exciting possibilities of simulating environments for research and design purposes.

Andrew Cooper Sansone otherwise known as SenseofMind on his popular youtube channel is a prolific Neuroscience content creator and communicator. He runs the social brain podcast where he delves into fascinating topics like the Evolution of the brain the Neuroscience of emotions and everything in between. With a biochemistry background he’s incredibly knowledgable about different brain systems and current Neuroscience research that help you improve your life. This knowledge made for a fascinating conversation which I really enjoyed. 00:00 Intro 03:30 Unraveling the Mystery of the Brain 13:13 The Challenges of Neuroscience Communication 36:11 Finding Peace and Perspective through Gratitude 38:19 The Challenges of Meditation 40:18 Cultivating Awe in Nature 42:32 The Impact of Social Media 53:27 The Psychology of Intrinsic Motivation 58:51 The Potential and Ethical Considerations of Neurotechnology 01:10:38 The Exciting and Uncertain Future of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology In this conversation, Andrew, a neuroscience communicator, discusses his most interesting findings about the brain and the challenges of understanding it. He highlights the mystery of consciousness and the difficulty in explaining emotions. The conversation then shifts to the importance of neuroscience communication and Andrew's goal of providing accurate information to help people live better lives. They discuss the complexity of neuroscience and the challenges of simplifying it for a general audience. Andrew shares practical takeaways from neuroscience, including strategies for emotion regulation, enhancing positive emotions, and taking care of physical health. The conversation explores the topics of meditation, the psychology of awe, the impact of social media on mental health, the rewiring of Gen Z, intrinsic motivation, and the future of neuroscience and neurotechnology. The guests discuss their personal experiences with meditation and how it can be challenging to maintain a consistent practice. They also delve into the benefits of experiencing awe in nature and the negative effects of constant social media exposure. The conversation touches on the potential impact of social media and mobile phones on future generations, particularly in terms of their development and well-being. They explore the neuroscience of intrinsic motivation and how it can be cultivated. The guests also discuss the potential of neurotechnology, such as brain-computer interfaces, and the ethical considerations surrounding its development. They express both excitement and concern about the future of neuroscience and neurotechnology, highlighting the potential for positive advancements as well as the risks and trade-offs involved. Be sure to follow the podcast on spotify and check out the channel on Youtube!

Dr Redmond O’ Connell is a cognitive neuroscientist from Trinity College Dublin, the college where I received my degree. He has spent decades studying our decision making systems in the brain, how we build evidence in a manner shaped by our experience and perceptions and ultimately how we make heavily biased decisions. Dr Redmond has won many awards and is a brilliant researcher and scientific communicator. Subscribe on youtube and follow on Spotify so you don’t miss the next neuroscience podcast, I hope you enjoy! 00:00 Intro 03:23 The Brain's Decision-Making Process 04:56 The Evidence Accumulation Process 11:58 Overcoming Biases through Education and Critical Thinking 15:15 Effective Communication to Address Biases 39:52 Introduction and Free Will 55:50 Limitations of Large Language Models 01:02:42 Mimicking the Human Brain in AI 01:10:31 Understanding Consciousness in AI 01:16:29 Exciting Advances and Concerns in the Next Decade of Science The brain's decision-making process is still not fully understood, but there are some guiding principles that have been established. One principle is the evidence accumulation process, where the brain samples and weighs different pieces of information before making a decision. Expectations and biases also play a role in decision making, as they shape the thresholds for accepting evidence. Biases can be difficult to overcome, but education and critical thinking can help. Effective communication is crucial in addressing biases and promoting a better understanding of complex issues. The concept of free will is subjective and depends on individual definitions and perspectives. In this conversation, Redmond O'Connell discusses the concept of free will and its relationship to neural activity and decision-making. He challenges the idea that neural activity preceding conscious decisions negates free will, arguing that it is a matter of quantity rather than a binary concept. O'Connell also explores the limitations of large language models like ChatGPT, highlighting their inability to reason and their reliance on statistical associations. He suggests that mimicking the human brain and incorporating embodied cognition may be key to developing more intelligent AI. O'Connell emphasizes the importance of understanding consciousness and the potential ethical concerns surrounding AI and misinformation.

Dr. Christof Koch is a leading neuroscientist who has dedicated his life to unraveling the secrets of consciousness. As the Chief Scientist of the MindScope Program at the Allen Institute for Brain Science, his work has transformed our understanding of how our minds work. 00:00 Intro 02:27 The Nature of Consciousness 05:41 Practical Implications of Consciousness Research 09:54 Boundaries of Consciousness in Organisms 32:08 Exploring Consciousness and the Experience of Flow 37:32 The Impact of Psychedelics on the Brain and Mental Health 51:00 AI and the Future of Human Meaning and Value Dr. Koch's career is nothing short of extraordinary. He's authored influential books like "The Quest for Consciousness", "Consciousness: Confessions of a Romantic Reductionist," and most recently Then I Am Myself the World: What Consciousness Is and How to Expand It. His groundbreaking research with Nobel Laureate Francis Crick has also helped shape modern neuroscience. Dr. Christoph Koch discusses the nature of consciousness, its research, and the boundaries of consciousness in various organisms. He also delves into the philosophical and metaphysical aspects of consciousness, including physicalism, idealism, and panpsychism. Additionally, he shares personal insights on how his study of consciousness has impacted his life and ethical choices. The conversation delves into the nature of consciousness, the experience of flow, the impact of psychedelics on the brain, and the potential role of psychedelics in mental health therapies. It also explores the implications of AI on human meaning and value. We also both recount our personal psychedelics experiences and the profound effects they have had on us.

Dr Shane O' Mara is a Neuroscientist and professor of Experimental Brain Research in Trinity College Dublin. Dr O' Mara's academic research concerns the brain systems supporting learning and memory, and how they are affected by stress and depression; He has also explored the intersection of psychology and neuroscience with policy, evidence-based policy-making and related areas. 04:11 The Under-Walking Epidemic 11:26 The Impact of Standing Desks 13:52 Walking Treadmills vs. Outdoor Walking 30:08 Long-Distance Endurance Walking 32:44 Walking and All-Cause Mortality 34:40 Walking and Mental Health 47:51 The Link Between Walking and Creativity 55:44 The Role of the Default Mode Network in Creative Thinking 59:30 The Importance of Preparation and Incubation in Problem-Solving 01:03:37 The Power of Experimentation in Finding Innovative Solutions 01:08:24 Balancing Task Focus and End-State Focus for Effective Problem-Solving 01:10:32 Creating Space for Creative Thinking 01:13:55 Challenging Attention Span Claims 01:17:33 Adaptability to New Technologies 01:23:44 The Complex Relationship with Social Media 01:36:52 The Power of Walking 01:44:03 Tips for Walking More

Kevin Mitchell is an associate professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin. His research is aimed at understanding the genetic program specifying the wiring of the brain and its relevance to variation in human faculties, especially to psychiatric and neurological disease and to perceptual conditions like synaesthesia. 00:00 Intro 01:08 Introduction and Background 22:02 Debunking Brain Myths: The Truth About Neuroplasticity 39:04 The Importance of Critical Thinking and Skepticism 52:32 Questioning Claims about the Gut Microbiome 01:08:22 The Limitations of Brain Connectivity and the Complexity of the Brain 01:18:16 Synesthesia and the Diversity of Perception 01:32:01 The Myth of Growth Mindset: Lack of Solid Evidence