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Is Brain Mapping Legitimate? A Comprehensive Look at the Science and Applications
Introduction:
Have you ever wondered if those intriguing brain mapping techniques you see portrayed in sci-fi movies are actually real? Or perhaps you've encountered brain mapping services promising to unlock hidden potential or diagnose neurological conditions. The truth, as with many cutting-edge scientific fields, is complex. This article delves deep into the legitimacy of brain mapping, exploring the different types of brain mapping techniques, their scientific validity, their practical applications, and the potential pitfalls to be aware of. We’ll separate fact from fiction, allowing you to make informed decisions about this fascinating and rapidly evolving field.
1. Understanding Different Types of Brain Mapping:
Brain mapping isn't a single technique; it's an umbrella term for various non-invasive methods used to visualize and analyze brain activity and structure. The legitimacy of each technique depends heavily on its methodology and the claims made about its capabilities. Here are some key types:
Electroencephalography (EEG): EEG measures electrical activity in the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp. It's a well-established, legitimate technique used to diagnose epilepsy, sleep disorders, and other neurological conditions. While it provides excellent temporal resolution (showing changes over time), its spatial resolution (pinpointing the exact location of activity) is limited.
Magnetoencephalography (MEG): MEG measures magnetic fields produced by electrical activity in the brain. It offers better spatial resolution than EEG, providing a more precise picture of brain activity. Like EEG, MEG is a legitimate and clinically valuable tool.
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI): fMRI measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow. It boasts excellent spatial resolution, allowing for detailed visualization of brain regions involved in specific tasks. fMRI is a widely accepted and legitimate technique used extensively in neuroscience research and clinical settings.
Near-infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS): NIRS uses light to measure changes in blood flow and oxygenation in the brain. It's a portable and relatively inexpensive technique, but its spatial resolution is lower than fMRI. While legitimate, its applications are more limited.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET): PET scans use radioactive tracers to measure metabolic activity in the brain. It's primarily used to detect tumors, strokes, and other neurological abnormalities. It’s a legitimate technique, though its use is limited by the need for radioactive materials.
2. Legitimate Applications of Brain Mapping:
The legitimacy of brain mapping is undeniable when considering its established applications:
Diagnosis of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders: EEG, MEG, fMRI, and PET scans are crucial for diagnosing epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, tumors, traumatic brain injuries, and certain psychiatric disorders. These applications are backed by decades of research and clinical practice.
Neurosurgical Planning: Brain mapping techniques are essential for neurosurgery, helping surgeons precisely locate and avoid critical brain areas during procedures. This ensures patient safety and minimizes potential complications.
Research into Brain Function: Brain mapping plays a vital role in understanding how the brain works. Researchers use these techniques to study cognitive processes, emotional responses, and the effects of various stimuli on the brain. This research contributes significantly to our understanding of neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Neurorehabilitation: Brain mapping can be used to monitor progress during rehabilitation after a stroke or other brain injury. It can help tailor rehabilitation programs to the individual's specific needs and track their recovery.
3. Separating Fact from Fiction: Addressing Misleading Claims:
While brain mapping offers valuable clinical and research applications, it's crucial to be aware of misleading claims. Beware of services promising:
Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: While brain mapping can provide insights into brain function, it currently cannot reliably enhance cognitive abilities in a generalized way.
Personality Profiling or "Mind Reading": The complexity of the brain makes accurate personality profiling or mind reading through brain mapping technologically impossible.
Cures for Neurological Conditions: Brain mapping is a diagnostic tool, not a cure. While it helps diagnose conditions, treatment requires other interventions.
Overly Simplified Interpretations: The data generated by brain mapping is complex and requires expert interpretation. Simple interpretations without proper context can be misleading and inaccurate.
4. Ethical Considerations in Brain Mapping:
As brain mapping technology advances, ethical considerations become increasingly crucial:
Data Privacy and Security: Brain mapping data is highly sensitive. Strict protocols must be in place to ensure data privacy and security, protecting individuals from potential misuse.
Informed Consent: Individuals undergoing brain mapping should be fully informed about the procedure, its risks, and its limitations. They must provide informed consent before participating.
Accessibility and Equity: Brain mapping technology can be expensive. Efforts must be made to ensure equitable access to these valuable diagnostic and research tools.
5. The Future of Brain Mapping:
The future of brain mapping is bright. Ongoing research is leading to:
Improved Spatial and Temporal Resolution: New techniques are being developed to provide even more precise and detailed images of brain activity.
More Portable and Affordable Devices: Advancements are making brain mapping technology more accessible and user-friendly.
Integration with Other Technologies: Brain mapping is increasingly being integrated with other technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to enhance its diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.
Article Outline: "Is Brain Mapping Legitimate?"
Introduction: Briefly introduces brain mapping and its varied applications.
Chapter 1: Types of Brain Mapping: Explains different techniques (EEG, MEG, fMRI, NIRS, PET) and their legitimacy.
Chapter 2: Legitimate Applications: Covers established uses in diagnosis, surgery, research, and rehabilitation.
Chapter 3: Misleading Claims: Addresses exaggerated promises and separates fact from fiction.
Chapter 4: Ethical Considerations: Discusses privacy, consent, and equity concerns.
Chapter 5: Future of Brain Mapping: Explores promising advancements and future directions.
Conclusion: Summarizes the legitimacy of brain mapping and its potential benefits and drawbacks.
(The detailed explanation of each chapter is provided above in the main article body.)
FAQs:
1. Is brain mapping painful? Most brain mapping techniques are non-invasive and painless. Some may involve mild discomfort.
2. How long does a brain mapping session take? The duration varies depending on the technique used, ranging from minutes to hours.
3. Is brain mapping safe? Brain mapping techniques are generally safe when performed by qualified professionals. However, there are potential risks, such as allergic reactions to contrast agents.
4. How much does brain mapping cost? The cost varies greatly depending on the technique and location.
5. Can brain mapping be used to treat mental illness? Not directly; it's a diagnostic tool. Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis.
6. Can brain mapping predict future behavior? No. Brain activity reflects current state, not future actions.
7. What are the limitations of brain mapping? Spatial and temporal resolution vary across methods; interpretation requires expertise.
8. Who should I consult for brain mapping? A neurologist or other qualified healthcare professional.
9. Is brain mapping covered by insurance? Coverage depends on the reason for the procedure and the insurance plan.
Related Articles:
1. EEG: A Comprehensive Guide: A detailed overview of electroencephalography, its uses, and limitations.
2. fMRI: Unlocking the Secrets of the Brain: Exploring functional magnetic resonance imaging and its applications in neuroscience.
3. MEG: A Powerful Tool for Brain Imaging: A closer look at magnetoencephalography and its advantages over other techniques.
4. The Ethics of Neuroimaging: A discussion of ethical considerations surrounding brain imaging techniques.
5. Brain Mapping and Neurological Disorders: A review of the role of brain mapping in diagnosing and treating neurological conditions.
6. Brain Mapping in Neurosurgery: Exploring the applications of brain mapping in surgical planning and execution.
7. The Future of Neurotechnology: A look at emerging technologies and their potential impact on brain research and healthcare.
8. Brain Plasticity and Brain Mapping: Examining the relationship between brain plasticity and the information obtained through brain mapping.
9. Misinterpretations and Misuse of Brain Mapping Data: A critical analysis of common misunderstandings and misrepresentations of brain mapping results.
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| is brain mapping legitimate: Brain Mapping , 2015-02-14 Brain Mapping: A Comprehensive Reference, Three Volume Set offers foundational information for students and researchers across neuroscience. With over 300 articles and a media rich environment, this resource provides exhaustive coverage of the methods and systems involved in brain mapping, fully links the data to disease (presenting side by side maps of healthy and diseased brains for direct comparisons), and offers data sets and fully annotated color images. Each entry is built on a layered approach of the content – basic information for those new to the area and more detailed material for experienced readers. Edited and authored by the leading experts in the field, this work offers the most reputable, easily searchable content with cross referencing across articles, a one-stop reference for students, researchers and teaching faculty. Broad overview of neuroimaging concepts with applications across the neurosciences and biomedical research Fully annotated color images and videos for best comprehension of concepts Layered content for readers of different levels of expertise Easily searchable entries for quick access of reputable information Live reference links to ScienceDirect, Scopus and PubMed |
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| is brain mapping legitimate: Idea Mapping Jamie Nast, 2012-06-15 Praise for Idea Mapping Nast's work in Idea Mapping enables those with creative minds to clearly lay out their thinking process and those who are more process-minded to become creative. If your organization is looking for a pragmatic, step-by-step guide to idea mapping, this is it. --Chris Brown, Executive Vice President, DTE Energy Resources I have used idea maps for thirty years and have taught MBA students, employees, and my children how to harness their power. I strongly recommend this book and believe you will feel it to be one of the best investments you have ever made in your own growth. --Stephen C. Lundin, coauthor, FISH! This is a book that everyone should read. It's an interactive, thought-provoking book about the brain and learning that will expand your mind. Nast, an accomplished and well-respected instructor, has guided me into a new realm of learning experiences and possibilities. I'm sure you will feel the same upon reading her insightful work. --Simon Tai, CEO, Buzan Centre Taiwan and S&J Media Intergration Co. Ltd., Host of News Discovery on NEWS 98 Taiwan Nast shows you a revolutionary method to capture your thinking processes. Don't underestimate the simplicity of idea mapping because therein lies its genius. --Scott Hagwood, four-time USA Memory Champion, author, Memory Power The ability to visually capture and organize thoughts and ideas has enabled millions of people around the world to do their work with greater creativity and productivity, run their businesses more strategically, and manage complex projects more efficiently--even map out a sales process or new product roll-out. Nast's very practical, readable book will get you quickly up to speed on one of the simplest but most powerful ways to organize your ideas, your work, and yourself. --Mike Jetter, cofounder and CTO, Mindjet Corporation, coauthor, The Cancer Code The principles Nast writes about in Idea Mapping have become a staple for me over the past fourteen years. I was turned onto the concept of idea mapping in 1992 and have been a student and practitioner ever since. This has absolutely transformed the way I learn, design learning, and prepare for public speaking. I have never been more confident in my recall, knowing the content is nicely tucked away in my brain as it was designed to be. Get ready for a life-changing experience for yourself and those you influence. --Will Flora, Senior Manager, Chick-Fil-A University, Atlanta, GA |
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| is brain mapping legitimate: Mapping the Brain and Its Functions Institute of Medicine, Division of Biobehavioral Sciences and Mental Disorders, Division of Health Sciences Policy, Committee on a National Neural Circuitry Database, 1991-02-01 Significant advances in brain research have been made, but investigators who face the resulting explosion of data need new methods to integrate the pieces of the brain puzzle. Based on the expertise of more than 100 neuroscientists and computer specialists, this new volume examines how computer technology can meet that need. Featuring outstanding color photography, the book presents an overview of the complexity of brain research, which covers the spectrum from human behavior to genetic mechanisms. Advances in vision, substance abuse, pain, and schizophrenia are highlighted. The committee explores the potential benefits of computer graphics, database systems, and communications networks in neuroscience and reviews the available technology. Recommendations center on a proposed Brain Mapping Initiative, with an agenda for implementation and a look at issues such as privacy and accessibility. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Z Score Neurofeedback Robert W. Thatcher, Joel F. Lubar, 2014-09-20 Neurofeedback is utilized by over 10,000 clinicians worldwide with new techniques and uses being found regularly. Z Score Neurofeedback is a new technique using a normative database to identify and target a specific individual's area of dysregulation allowing for faster and more effective treatment. The book describes how to perform z Score Neurofeedback, as well as research indicating its effectiveness for a variety of disorders including pain, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, ADHD, TBI, headache, frontal lobe disorders, or for cognitive enhancement. Suitable for clinicians as well as researchers this book is a one stop shop for those looking to understand and use this new technique. - Contains protocols to implement Z score neurofeedback - Reviews research on disorders for which this is effective treatment - Describes advanced techniques and applications |
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| is brain mapping legitimate: The Neurofeedback Solution Stephen Larsen, 2012-03-26 A guide to neurofeedback for better physical and mental health as well as greater emotional balance, cognitive agility, and creativity • Provides easy-to-understand explanations of different neurofeedback methods--from the LENS technique to Z-score training • Explains the benefits of this therapy for anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, brain injuries, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and many other ailments • Explores how to combine neurofeedback with breathwork, mindfulness, meditation, and attention-control exercises such as Open Focus What is neurofeedback? How does it work? And how can it help me or my family? In this guide to neurofeedback, psychologist and neurofeedback clinician Stephen Larsen examines the countless benefits of neurofeedback for diagnosing and treating many of the most debilitating and now pervasive psychological and neurological ailments, including autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stroke, brain injury, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Surveying the work of neurofeedback pioneers, Larsen explains the techniques and advantages of different neurofeedback methods--from the LENS technique and HEG to Z-score training and Slow Cortical Potentials. He reveals evidence of neuroplasticity--the brain’s ability to grow new neurons—and shows how neurofeedback can nourish the aging brain and help treat degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and strokes. Examining the different types of brain waves, he shows how to recognize our own dominant brainwave range and thus learn to exercise control over our mental states. He explains how to combine neurofeedback with breathwork, mindfulness, meditation, and attention-control exercises such as Open Focus. Sharing successful and almost miraculous case studies of neurofeedback patients from a broad range of backgrounds, including veterans and neglected children, this book shows how we can nurture our intimate relationship with the brain, improving emotional, cognitive, and creative flexibility as well as mental health. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: A Critical History and Philosophy of Psychology Richard T. G. Walsh, Thomas Teo, Angelina Baydala, 2014-03-20 Presents a fresh perspective that explores the development of psychology as both a human and a natural science. |
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| is brain mapping legitimate: The Skeptical Professional’s Guide to Psychiatry Charles E. Dean, 2020-11-22 This text critically examines the shortcomings of psychiatry; the flawed development of the diagnostic system, including the DSM-5; and the failure to advance the effectiveness of antipsychotics and antidepressants. Starting with an overview of the evolution of psychiatry, Dean explores the creation, use, and misuse of medications, a process largely driven by drug companies. Other chapters describe the benefits and risks of medications, the problems associated with rational prescribing, and the embrace of so-called novel therapies including hallucinogenic drugs and opioids. Chapters end with a set of clinical notes that provide specific recommendations to clinicians, families, patients, and other providers, emphasizing the risks and benefits of treatment with medications but also stressing alternative approaches. This book will challenge clinicians to think critically about the DSM-5 and the current systems of diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses in the hopes of ultimately improving the lives of people with mental illnesses. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Finally Focused James Greenblatt, M.D., Bill Gottlieb, CHC, 2017-05-09 Discover the ADHD solution for your child with this holistic, evidence-based, and customizable approach to alleviating unwanted symptoms without relying on medication. “A clear, effective, and science-based program that gives you all the building blocks to treat ADHD naturally and effectively.”—Daniel G. Amen, M.D., founder of Amen Clinics and New York Times bestselling author of Change Your Brain, Change Your Life ADHD is not a discipline problem. It is a medical condition with a range of possible underlying causes unique to each person. Dr. James Greenblatt has seen thousands of children and adults struggling with the symptoms of ADHD—hyperactivity, inattentiveness, impulsiveness, and often irritability and combativeness. To really heal, the ADHD child needs personalized treatment to correct the biologic imbalances that affect the brain and trigger symptoms. Rather than simply prescribing medication, Dr. Greenblatt tailors remedies to his ADHD patients’ individual needs, detecting and treating the underlying causes of the disorder. Finally Focused provides a comprehensive solution to the ADHD patient’s unique biochemical imbalances using proven natural and medical methods to easily treat problems such as nutritional deficiencies or excesses, dysbiosis (a microbial imbalance inside the body), sleeping difficulties, and food allergies—all of which surprisingly can cause or worsen the symptoms of ADHD. Dr. Greenblatt’s effective Plus-Minus Healing Plan allows parents to understand the reasons behind their child’s symptoms and provides customizable tools to eliminate them. Adults with ADHD can do the same. And if conventional medication is still necessary, this integrative approach will minimize or even eliminate troublesome side effects. With Dr. Greenblatt’s expert advice, millions of children and adults with ADHD will finally get the help they need to achieve true wellness. |
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| is brain mapping legitimate: (NAS Colloquium) Neuroimaging of Human Brain Function Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 1998-01-01 The colloquium on Imaging of Cognitive Function speaks to the many audiences whose interests relate to efforts to map cognitive processes in the human brain. There are things of great interest in this collection of papers for specialists in cognition and neuroscience and imaging science as well as in disciplines interested in human development through education and training and others with intrinsic interest in the latest information on how the human brain supports thought. The papers were presented at a meeting sponsored by the National Academy of Sciences in its western home the Beckman Center at the University of California, Irvine. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Mapping Applied Linguistics Christopher J. Hall, Patrick H. Smith, Rachel Wicaksono, 2015-05-11 Mapping Applied Linguistics: A Guide for Students and Practitioners provides an innovative and wide-ranging introduction to the full scope of applied linguistics. Incorporating both socio-cultural and cognitive perspectives, the book maps the diverse and constantly expanding range of theories, methods and issues faced by students and practitioners alike. Practically oriented and ideally suited to students new to the subject area, the book provides in-depth coverage of: language teaching and education, literacy and language disorders language variation and world Englishes language policy and planning lexicography and forensic linguistics multilingualism and translation. Including real data and international examples, the book features further reading and exercises in each chapter, fieldwork suggestions and a full glossary of key terms. An interactive Companion Website also provides a wealth of additional resources. This book will be essential reading for students studying applied linguistics, TESOL, general linguistics, and education at the advanced undergraduate or master’s degree level. It is also the ideal gateway for practitioners to better understand the wider scope of their work. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Handbook of Prejudice, Stereotyping, and Discrimination Todd D. Nelson, 2009-02-17 This Handbook provides a uniquely comprehensive and scholarly overview of the latest research on prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination. All chapters are written by eminent prejudice researchers who explore key topics, by presenting an overview of current research and, where appropriate, developing new theory, models, or scales. The volume is clearly structured, with a broad section on cognitive, affective, and neurological processes, followed by chapters on some of the main target groups of prejudice – based on race, sex, age, sexual orientation, and weight. A concluding section explores the issues involved in reducing prejudice. Chapters on the history of research in prejudice and future directions round off this state-of-the-art Handbook. The volume will provide an essential resource for students, instructors, and researchers in social and personality psychology, and also be an invaluable reference for academics and professionals in the fields of sociology, communication studies, gerontology, nursing, medicine, as well as government and policymakers and social service agencies. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: It Takes a Family Rick Santorum, 2023-10-03 Among politicians of national stature today, there is perhaps none more respected as a principled conservative than Rick Santorum. In It Takes a Family: Conservatism and the Common Good, Santorum articulates the humane vision that he believes must inform public policy if it is to be effective and just. An appreciation for the civic bonds that unite a community lies at the heart of genuine conservatism. Moreover, Santorum demonstrates how such an approach to political, social, and economic problems offers the most promise for those on the margin of life: the poor, the vulnerable, and minorities who have often been excluded from opportunity in America. Santorum argues that conservative statesmanship is animated by a sense of stewardship for an inheritance. But what do we inherit as Americans? And how can we be good stewards of that inheritance? Building on Robert Putnam's discussion of social capital, the habits of association and trust that are the preconditions of any decent society, Santorum assesses how well, in the past generation, Americans have cared for the fabric of society. He explores in detail various dimensions of social and cultural connection that are the foundation of the common good. And he presents innovative policy proposals for the renewal of American society at all levels. Throughout his book, Santorum emphasizes the central role of the family—in contradistinction to the metaphorical village of the federal government, as promoted by Hillary Clinton—in achieving the common good. With a sustained argument touching on first principles throughout, this ambitious and original book is a major contribution to contemporary political debate. It Takes a Family further establishes Santorum as the leader of reform-minded civic conservatives in America. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: The Psychological Construction of Emotion Lisa Feldman Barrett, James A. Russell, 2014-11-27 This volume presents cutting-edge theory and research on emotions as constructed events rather than fixed, essential entities. It provides a thorough introduction to the assumptions, hypotheses, and scientific methods that embody psychological constructionist approaches. Leading scholars examine the neurobiological, cognitive/perceptual, and social processes that give rise to the experiences Western cultures call sadness, anger, fear, and so on. The book explores such compelling questions as how the brain creates emotional experiences, whether the ingredients of emotions also give rise to other mental states, and how to define what is or is not an emotion. Introductory and concluding chapters by the editors identify key themes and controversies and compare psychological construction to other theories of emotion. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Parsing the Turing Test Robert Epstein, Gary Roberts, Grace Beber, 2008-12-01 An exhaustive work that represents a landmark exploration of both the philosophical and methodological issues surrounding the search for true artificial intelligence. Distinguished psychologists, computer scientists, philosophers, and programmers from around the world debate weighty issues such as whether a self-conscious computer would create an internet ‘world mind’. This hugely important volume explores nothing less than the future of the human race itself. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Handbook of Neuropsychology François Boller, 1988 Hardbound. Presented here is the eleventh and last volume of this edition of the renowned Handbook of Neuropsychology. The Handbook has become an essential reference source for clinicians such as neurologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists, as well as for scientists engaged in research in the neurosciences. The Handbook is a reference source providing comprehensive and current coverage of experimental and clinical aspects of Neuropsychology.Innovations that have radically modified this discipline in the last few years are included in the last few volumes of the Handbook of Neuropsychology. Section 16 of the current and final volume deals with the complex relationship between motor control and cognition. Section 17 deals with emergent techniques in Neuropsychology, while Section 18 reflects on some aspects of the continuing and vexing problem of consciousness and awareness. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Ethical Issues and Social Dilemmas in Knowledge Management: Organizational Innovation Morais da Costa, Goncalo Jorge, 2010-09-30 This book considers ethical issues and social dilemmas at two levels: the individual vs. individual and the individual vs. the collective, providing a thorough treatment of these facets and demonstrating the philosophical underpinnings of each dimension of knowledge management--Provided by publisher. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Education in Computer Generated Environments Sara de Freitas, 2013-10-15 This book examines the implications of computer-generated learning for curriculum design, epistemology, and pedagogy, exploring the ways these technologies transform the relationship between knowledge and learning, and between teachers and students. It argues that these technologies and practices have the potential to refocus on the human factors that are at the center of the learning process. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: On Not Dying Abou Farman, 2020-04-21 An ethnographic exploration of technoscientific immortality Immortality has long been considered the domain of religion. But immortality projects have gained increasing legitimacy and power in the world of science and technology. With recent rapid advances in biology, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence, secular immortalists hope for and work toward a future without death. On Not Dying is an anthropological, historical, and philosophical exploration of immortality as a secular and scientific category. Based on an ethnography of immortalist communities—those who believe humans can extend their personal existence indefinitely through technological means—and an examination of other institutions involved at the end of life, Abou Farman argues that secular immortalism is an important site to explore the tensions inherent in secularism: how to accept death but extend life; knowing the future is open but your future is finite; that life has meaning but the universe is meaningless. As secularism denies a soul, an afterlife, and a cosmic purpose, conflicts arise around the relationship of mind and body, individual finitude and the infinity of time and the cosmos, and the purpose of life. Immortalism today, Farman argues, is shaped by these historical and culturally situated tensions. Immortalist projects go beyond extending life, confronting dualism and cosmic alienation by imagining (and producing) informatic selves separate from the biological body but connected to a cosmic unfolding. On Not Dying interrogates the social implications of technoscientific immortalism and raises important political questions. Whose life will be extended? Will these technologies be available to all, or will they reproduce racial and geopolitical hierarchies? As human life on earth is threatened in the Anthropocene, why should life be extended, and what will that prolonged existence look like? |
| is brain mapping legitimate: The Oxford Handbook of Laboratory Phonology Abigail C. Cohn, Cécile Fougeron, Marie K. Huffman, 2012 This book provides state-of-the-art coverage of research in laboratory phonology. Laboratory phonology denotes a research perspective, not a specific theory: it represents a broad community of scholars dedicated to bringing interdisciplinary experimental approaches and methods to bear on how spoken language is structured, learned and used; it draws on a wide range of tools and concepts from cognitive and natural sciences. This book describes the investigative approaches,disciplinary perspectives, and methods deployed in laboratory phonology, and highlights the most promising areas of current research.Part one introduces the history, nature, and aims of laboratory phonology. The remaining four parts cover central issues in research done within this perspective, as well as methodological resources used for investigating these issues. Contributions to this volume address how laboratory phonology approaches have provided insight into human speech and language structure and how theoretical questions and methodologies are intertwined. This Handbook, the first specifically dedicated tothe laboratory phonology approach, builds on the foundation of knowledge amassed in linguistics, speech research and allied disciplines. With the varied interdisciplinary contributions collected, the Handbook advances work in this vibrant field. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Assessing Empathy Elizabeth A. Segal, Karen E. Gerdes, Cynthia A. Lietz, M. Alex Wagaman, Jennifer M. Geiger, 2017-02-28 Empathy is a widely used term, but it is also difficult to define. In recent years, the field of cognitive neuroscience has made impressive strides in identifying neural networks in the brain related to or triggered by empathy. Still, what exactly do we mean when we say that someone has—or lacks—empathy? How is empathy distinguished from sympathy or pity? And is society truly suffering from an empathy deficit, as some experts have charged?? In Assessing Empathy, Elizabeth A. Segal and colleagues marshal years of research to present a comprehensive definition of empathy, one that links neuroscientific evidence to human service practice. The book begins with a discussion of our current understanding of empathy in neurological, biological, and behavioral terms. The authors explain why empathy is important on both the individual and societal levels. They then introduce the concepts of interpersonal empathy and social empathy, and how these processes can interrelate or operate separately. Finally, they examine the weaknesses of extant empathy assessments before introducing three new, validated measures: the Empathy Assessment Index, the Social Empathy Index, and the Interpersonal and Social Empathy Index. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: Children's Speech Sound Disorders Caroline Bowen, 2014-10-07 SECOND EDITION Children's Speech Sound Disorders Speaking directly to experienced and novice clinicians, educators and students in speech-language pathology/speech and language therapy via an informative essay-based approach, Children's Speech Sound Disorders provides concise, easy-to-understand explanations of key aspects of the classification, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of articulation disorders, phonological disorders and childhood apraxia of speech. It also includes a range of searching questions to international experts on their work in the child speech field. This new edition of Children's Speech Sound Disorders is meticulously updated and expanded. It includes new material on Apps, assessing and treating two-year-olds, children acquiring languages other than English and working with multilingual children, communities of practice in communication sciences and disorders, distinguishing delay from disorder, linguistic sciences, counselling and managing difficult behaviour, and the neural underpinnings of and new approaches to treating CAS. This bestselling guide includes: Case vignettes and real-world examples to place topics in context Expert essays by sixty distinguished contributors A companion website for instructors at www.wiley.com/go/bowen/ speechlanguagetherapy and a range of supporting materials on the author's own site at speech-language-therapy.com Drawing on a range of theoretical, research and clinical perspectives and emphasising quality client care and evidence-based practice, Children's Speech Sound Disorders is a comprehensive collection of clinical nuggets, hands-on strategies, and inspiration. |
| is brain mapping legitimate: The Power of Face Reading Mac Fulfer, JD, 2019-06-15 Make stronger connections with anyone in the world by learning how to read facesThe Power of Face Reading is the most comprehensive, easy-to-use book on face reading available today. Author Mac Fulfer makes face reading fun and easy for you to understand more about the people you encounter-no matter who you meet or where you are in the world.Face reading is our foundational international language, and none of our seeming differences matter-whether nationality, gender, race, or culture-because every person's face can be read in the exact same way. For instance, the lines on our faces don't reflect aging. They're actually a roadmap showing where we have been and what we've done. So this book is not about interpreting facial expressions-it's about learning to read the stories that a person's face can tell. Using a unique approach that combines both genetics (the face you are born with) and epigenetics (the way life events alter facial features over time), this book helps you understand others better. Discover how learning to interpret simple and easily recognized features, such as ear size and eyebrow shape, can allow you to make a better connection with anyone, anywhere.Superbly illustrated and organized like an encyclopedia, The Power of Face Reading guides you through all you need to know about reading faces, from top-to-bottom, detail-to-gestalt, gesture-to-metaphoric meaning. The approach shared in this book is so easy to learn that you can put this how-to guide to use and begin reading faces within minutes of opening it up.Everyday applications for face reading include: ¿ Improving both work and personal relationships¿ Interviewing and hiring the right people¿ Team-building¿ Negotiating better ¿ Coaching, counseling¿ Finding the right job¿ Increasing sales by identifying buy signals¿ Identifying better business partners ¿ Reading your audience when presenting The Power of Face Reading includes:¿ 275 illustrations ¿ Clear explanations of what each facial feature means¿ Personality profiles to provide insight into every person you meet ¿ Sample readings to learn Mac's step-by-step face-reading approach¿ A useful checklist to help you read faces immediately¿ A fun face reading quiz to test yourself |
| is brain mapping legitimate: The Construction of Cognitive Maps Juval Portugali, 2007-08-23 and processes which are exclusive to humans in their encoding, storing, decoding and retrieving spatial knowledge for various tasks. The authors present and discuss connectionist models of cognitive maps which are based on local representation, versus models which are based on distributed representation, as well as connectionist models concerning language and spatial relations. As is well known, Gibson's (1979) ecological approach suggests a view on cognition which is diametrically different from the classical main stream view: perception (and thus cognition) is direct, immediate and needs no internal information processing, and is thus essentially an external process of interaction between an organism and its external environment. The chapter by Harry Heft introduces J. J. Gibson's ecological approach and its implication to the construction of cognitive maps in general and to the issue of wayfinding in particular. According to Heft, main stream cognitive sciences are essentially Cartesian in nature and have not as yet internalized the implications of Darwin's theory of evolution. Gibson, in his ecological approach, has tried to do exactly this. The author introduces the basic terminology of the ecological approach and relates its various notions, in particular optic flow, nested hierarchy and affordances, to navigation and the way routes and places in the environment are learned. |
