Science Archives

The Psychology of Abstract vs. Concrete Thought

What is the difference between abstract and concrete thought? How did the world of narrative help patient Rebecca cope with her inability to comprehend abstract ideas? Psychologist Oliver Sacks discusses his patient Rebecca in his book The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat. Due to an intellectual disability, Rebecca struggled to comprehend abstract thought yet she excelled at writing poetry because of her understanding of narrative. Here is what Oliver Sacks had to say about abstract and concrete thought and the amazing story of Rebecca.

How Science Works: The 3 Basic Aspects of Science

Do you understand how science works? Does it operate on proof or consensus? How does it handle uncertainty? Science impacts all of us, so we would do well to understand how science works. It’s helpful to know the basics of the peer review process, how the scientific community deals with uncertainty, and what scientists mean when they use the word “cause.” Read more to learn the basics of how science works.

Oliver Sacks and the Extraordinary Savant Twins

What was so extraordinary about the savant twins Michael and John? What did the twins teach Oliver Sacks about the brain’s hidden abilities? In the book The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat, psychologist Oliver Sacks talks about his experience with savant twins Michael and John. These twins had some amazing abilities surrounding numbers and even seemed to communicate with each other using them. Here is the story of the savant twins, Michael and John, as told by Oliver Sacks.

What Is an Intellectual Disorder? Oliver Sacks’ Studies

What is an intellectual disorder? Why did psychologist Oliver Sacks find intellectual disorders especially interesting to study? What did he learn about concrete and abstract thought? In his book The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat, Oliver Sacks explains that working with intellectually disabled patients was special to him. He was interested in the differences between concrete and abstract thought and trying to help intellectually disabled patients live lives rich with creativity and joy. Here are a couple of Oliver Sacks’ stories about his experiences working with patients with intellectual disorders.

Aphasia vs. Agnosia: Explanation and Case Studies

What is the difference between aphasia vs. agnosia? What are some examples of each? In his book The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat, Oliver Sacks examines multiple cases of aphasia and agnosia. He describes the behaviors of patients with each condition and explains the differences between the two. Here are Oliver Sacks’ case studies and an explanation of the difference between aphasia vs. agnosia.

The Struggle to Survive: Biology’s Influence on History

Have you considered biology’s place in history? How has humanity’s struggle to survive been a factor? In The Lessons of History, Will and Ariel Durant assert that biology is a driving force in history. Specifically, there are three biological forces that shape human behavior and thus human history: competition, selection, and the need to reproduce. These forces are part of life’s struggle to survive. Read more to learn how the struggle to survive shapes human history.

Empathy Neurons—Our Brains Have Mirrors

What are empathy neurons? How can empathy result in the spread of bad habits? Mirror neurons are also referred to as empathy neurons and are responsible for keeping track of what others around us do, say, think, feel, and want. This instinct can also cause you to be positively or negatively influenced by those around you. Keep reading to learn more about mirror neurons, empathy and influence.

Delay Discounting: Make Yourself Wait

Have you ever noticed that the longer you have to wait for something, the less you tend to want it? How can you take advantage of delay discounting? Delay discounting means that the longer you have to wait for something good, the less appealing it seems. This causes you to crave instant gratification rather than working towards a long-term goal. You can also turn this around and use it to your advantage. If you make that cookie harder to access, you’ll want it less. Continue below for more on delay discounting.

How Dopamine Highs Sabotage Your Willpower

What is a dopamine high? What is the biological purpose of dopamine? How can a dopamine high undermine your self-control? Dopamine is the brain neurotransmitter that is at the root of every craving and desire. Dopamine can be dangerous because it causes a form of arousal when you want something, but does not release any sort of satisfaction when you receive that item. This cycle of want and disappointment can lead to anxiety and addiction. Here’s everything you need to know about dopamine highs and how to use dopamine in your favor.

How Body Responses Sabotage Your Willpower

How do your natural body responses affect willpower? How can you turn your fight-or-flight response into a pause-and-plan response? Body responses such as the fight-or-flight response were great in the Stone Age, but not so great for our self-control. These impulses that were designed to save your life tend to kick in at the worst times—like when you’re on a diet and your body says that you need that fresh-baked cookie. Luckily, there are ways to fight these natural body responses and take the control back.