RELATIONSHIPS - Advanced Technology And Our Brain Health
A conscious perspective on how technology can negatively impact our brain's neurons.
"Use it or lose it."
This popular phrase carries many meanings. But at its core, it suggests that if we do not practice or utilize our abilities and skills, they may deteriorate or even be completely lost over time.
It is a popular phrase in the field of neuroplasticity, which studies the brain's ability to adapt and change.
Our brain consists of neurons, such as sensory and motor neurons, that are responsible for transmitting information that influences our thoughts, sensations, and movements.
According to the "Use it or lose it" principle, if we do not actively engage the neurons in our brain, they may weaken or lose their overall functionality over time.
Normally, this principle in neuroplasticity is studied in people who have experienced brain damage, such as those who have experienced a stroke and lost neurons associated with motor functions.
However, the topic of 'deteriorating neurons' is more of a common issue, especially as technology continues to advance and replaces our brain’s important functions.
Advancements in technology have been very beneficial for our ability as a humanity to expand our reach of life. Yet, many people are using advanced technology in ways that are deteriorating their brain health.
Many people are becoming heavily reliant on technology to make their lives easier, to the extent that it has replaced much of their critical thinking instead of supplementing it. As a result, their brains are experiencing the negative effects of the "lose it" aspect of the "Use it or lose it" principle.
Our mental health can deteriorate if our brain's neurons are not sufficiently stimulated.
For example, imagine a person who retires from work and decides to binge-watch television shows and movies all day for weeks. They go from actively engaging in complex work tasks to hardly engaging in critical thinking at all.
This decline in mental stimulation may lead to a decreased capacity for problem-solving, critical thinking, or introspection, as their brain is no longer as active as it was when they were fully engaged in their previous work responsibilities.
It's the "Use it or Lose it" concept of neuroplasticity that is negatively affecting their brain cells.
Now, let's think about this from a technology perspective. Think about how often people use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to replace critical thinking in an effort to make their lives easier or more efficient.
AI is a great benefit when we use it while we continue to strengthen our growth as humans. But when we no longer stimulate our inner capabilities, AI can become a detriment to our health or personal development.
As mentioned, advanced technology can be great for humanity to expand the possibilities of life. However, there is a risk of overreliance that can lead to a decline in our cognitive health and ultimately affect the quality of our lives.
What is your relationship with technology? Are you engaging your brain actively, or are you leaning toward the "lose it" side of the "use it or lose it" principle?
An Evolving Relationship
Video Text
“Technology will continue to advance, making our lives easier, more enjoyable, or more efficient. However, excessive use of technology can negatively impact our brain health.
When we do not sufficiently engage our brain's functions and capabilities, our sensory and motor skills may decline more quickly as we age.
What does excessive use of technology look like, and what does it mean to have a healthy relationship with technology?
The following section will explore our evolving relationship with technology and its future implications.”