Introduction
If you haven’t read part one of “debunking neuroscience myths,” check out here! In this series, we look into the intriguing world of neuroscience. We aim to uncover prevalent misconceptions. These misconceptions have captivated the imagination of many. As we continue this exploration, we aim to unravel more of these myths by shedding light on the complexities of the brain and its functions. Here’s to more neuroscience facts!
1) You only have Five Senses
The Myth
From a young age, it is widely taught that humans have five senses: sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch. This idea dates to Aristotle and has become deeply ingrained in popular culture and education.
The reality
In truth, humans have a lot more than five senses. The five senses we are all familiar with are called exteroceptive senses, as they carry information from the outside world. However, the exact number of senses we have is still argued over by neuroscientists. Some talk about 10, 12, or even more than 30 senses! Some of the lesser-known senses include:
- Equilibrioception- a sense of balance
- Kinaesthesia- a sense of movement
- Nociception- the ability to feel pain
- Chronoception – how we sense the passing of time
- Thermoception – how we sense the temperature around us
Each sense provides vital information about our internal and external environments.
Why the myth persists
The simplicity of the five-sense model makes it easy to teach and understand. It is also easier to be aware of our external senses rather than our internal senses. However, recognizing the range of human senses is important. It provides a more accurate understanding of how we interact with the world.
Further reading
Bosco, A., Diez, P. S., Filippini, M., & Fattori, P. (2023). The influence of action on perception spans different effectors. Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience, 17. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnsys.2023.1145643
Enoch, J., McDonald, L., Jones, L., Jones, P. R., & Crabb, D. P. (2019). Evaluating whether sight is the most valued sense. JAMA Ophthalmology, 137(11), 1317. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2019.3537
Feldman-Barrett, L. (n.d.). We have more than five senses. A neuroscientist explains the hidden abilities we often overlook. BBC Science Focus Magazine. https://www.sciencefocus.com/the-human-body/how-many-senses-do-we-have
2)Alcohol kills brain cells
The Myth
A common belief is that drinking alcohol can kill your brain cells, leading to permanent brain damage and cognitive decline. This belief has been popularised by warnings from parents, educators and public health campaigns.
The reality
The truth is… moderate alcohol use does not kill your brain cells. However, excessive or sustained drinking over a long time can damage dendrites. Dendrites are neuronal endings that receive data or signals from other neurons. This means that alcohol disrupts the communication between the neurons. Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to brain shrinkage and impairments in areas such as memory, coordination, and judgment. These effects, however, are primarily due to damage in the dendrites rather than the death of the neuron itself. In addition to this, individuals with alcohol addiction may develop a neurological disorder called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. This disorder results in reduced muscle control. It also causes impaired memory and vision changes.
Why the myth persists
This myth persists as it is a straightforward and alarming deterrent against excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, the visible cognitive and physical impairment observed in chronic alcoholics reinforces the belief. People think alcohol is directly killing our brain cells. The simplification of this myth is rooted in good intentions. However, the actual mechanisms of alcohol-related brain damage are more nuanced.
Further reading
Crews, F. T. (2008). Alcohol-Related Neurodegeneration and Recovery: Mechanisms from animal models. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3860462/
Nutt, D., Hayes, A., Fonville, L., Zafar, R., Palmer, E. O., Paterson, L., & Lingford-Hughes, A. (2021). Alcohol and the brain. Nutrients, 13(11), 3938. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13113938
3) Your brain works better under pressure
The myth
We‘ve all heard someone say ‘I will leave this assignment until the last minute, I work better under pressure anyway!’ People believe that their brains perform better under pressure, often pulling all-nighters or meeting tight deadlines. This belief is common in high-stress environments like schools or workplaces.
The Reality
While pressure motivates one to work hard, it does not result in better brain performance. Rather, stress is more likely to impair function. High levels of stress can disrupt memory, decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Chronic stress is harmful, leading to long-term detrimental effects on brain health. Optimal performance is more likely achieved through balanced well-managed stress levels and adequate rest. A study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that chronic stress can shrink the prefrontal cortex. This area of the brain is responsible for memory and learning. More research demonstrated that students who managed their stress effectively through regular breaks and adequate sleep performed better academically. They did better compared to those who crammed under pressure. These findings underscore the importance of balanced stress management for optimal cognitive function.
Why the myth
This myth is popular partly due to the occasional success stories of people performing well under last-minute pressure. Additionally, our culture glorifies hustle culture and constant productivity, this contributes to the belief that pressure enhances performance. However, recognizing the adverse effects of stress is vital for maintaining cognitive health and overall well-being.
Further reading
Yaribeygi, H., Panahi, Y., Sahraei, H., Johnston, T. P., & Sahebkar, A. (2017). The impact of stress on body function: A review. PubMed, 16, 1057–1072. https://doi.org/10.17179/excli2017-480
McEwen, B. S. (2012). Brain on stress: How the social environment gets under the skin. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(supplement_2), 17180–17185. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1121254109
Blasche, G., Szabo, B., Wagner‐Menghin, M., Ekmekcioglu, C., & Gollner, E. (2018). Comparison of rest‐break interventions during a mentally demanding task. Stress and Health, 34(5), 629–638. https://doi.org/10.1002/smi.2830
4)Learning style matters
The Myth
During our time in school, we’ve all been familiar with the concept of learning styles. These include visual (learning by seeing), auditory (learning by hearing), and kinaesthetic (learning by moving). This concept has been widely accepted in education. This has led to the development of numerous teaching methods tailored to different learning styles. This myth originated in the 1970s, with the idea of individual learning gaining popularity. This ultimately led to categorising learning styles and the widespread belief that this would enhance performance.
The Reality
At face value, the idea of individuals having different learning styles makes sense, as everyone is different. However, extensive research has shown that there is little evidence to support the efficacy of learning styles. The research indicates limited improvement in educational outcomes. A review of studies on this topic has found no significant advantage to teaching students in their preferred learning style. Rather, effective teaching methods often involve using multiple approaches to reinforce learning, regardless of a student’s self-identified learning style.
Why the myth persists
Despite the evidence, this myth provides a simple and appealing explanation for the complexities of learning. Many educators and students find comfort in the idea that a tailored approach can unlock untapped potential. Moreover, the commercial interest in creating and selling resources and programs based on learning styles also fuels the popularity.
Further Reading
Riener, C., & Willingham, D. (2010). The myth of learning styles. Change the Magazine of Higher Learning, 42(5), 32–35. https://doi.org/10.1080/00091383.2010.503139
5)The brain declines as you get older
The myth
There is a well-believed myth that we inevitably lose our memory as we age. It also suggests that reasoning skills and overall brain function deteriorate. Cultural stereotypes and the media often fuel this myth, portraying elderly individuals struggling with severe memory loss and dementia.
The Reality
Certain cognitive functions may slow down as we age. However, the brain is still capable of remarkable adaptability. It shows resilience. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections. This continues throughout life. It enables older individuals to sustain and sometimes improve cognitive abilities. This happens if coupled with the right mental stimulation and lifestyle choices. Older adults often perform better in areas such as comprehension, vocabulary, and emotional regulation in comparison to younger people. Research shows that activities like learning a new skill can promote brain health. Regular physical exercise can also mitigate age-related cognitive decline. In addition, many adults have accumulated knowledge and experience. This is known as crystallized intelligence. It remains robust or even increases with age.
Why the myth persists
This myth persists because of a combination of observable age-related changes in cognitive function. There is also a lack of understanding about the brain’s adaptability. In today’s media, extreme cases of cognitive decline are often highlighted, such as dementia. This overshadows the more common experience of gradual and manageable changes in cognitive abilities. Additionally, society’s attitude towards ageing can reinforce negative stereotypes. This makes it harder to recognize the potential for continued cognitive growth and learning in older adults.
Further Reading
Murman, D. (2015). The impact of age on cognition. Seminars in Hearing, 36(03), 111–121. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0035-1555115
Chang, Y., Wu, I., & Hsiung, C. A. (2020). Reading activity prevents long-term decline in cognitive function in older people: evidence from a 14-year longitudinal study. International Psychogeriatrics, 33(1), 63–74. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1041610220000812
Conclusion
How many of these myths did you believe? In our society, it is easy to believe what the media tells us, even when it is not accurate. However, it is still important to understand the reality and the causes of these myths to enhance our knowledge! Many myths arise from a lack of information, misinterpretation of facts, or the propagation of sensationalized stories. Remember, busting myths can be loads of fun! It’s crucial to remain critical and seek out verified sources of information to avoid being misled by common misconceptions!
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