Make Way for Brain Science

     With more neuroscientists having breakthrough findings through their research, brain science technology is really turning some heads. Much of this can be attributed to the Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative in 2013. This was a $115 million plan that has since produced “switches” to turn neurons on and off, the ability to insert glowing molecules to observe brain processes, and the capability to record huge amounts of neuron activity at once.
     John Krakaeur, a neuroscientist at Johns Hopkins Hospital, is changing the way people view brain science. “People think technology = big data = machine learning = science. And it’s not,” says Krakaeur. In my opinion, he couldn’t be more right. Nowadays, science exceeds the realms of machinery and complex contraptions and it is stretching to become more interdisciplinary. Krakaeur, a vanguard in brain science, says that brains are so intricate and unique because of the effect they have on an individual’s behavior. However, an absence of motivated individuals who share this interest is what’s leading to the field’s denial. Neuroscientists are instead using resources to study neurons and the way they work individually and in groups. However, this study will only tell us so much about the real workings of the mind, and in order to really get into it, more scientists need to start focusing on how brains create behavior.
     Science is finally breaking the barriers that have been set in stone for so long which means that now is as good a time as ever to be inspired, come out of your comfort zone, and maybe even change the world.

To learn more, visit: https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2017/02/how-brain-scientists-forgot-that-brains-have-owners/517599/