Sunday Spectrum - 18 February

Welcome back to this week's edition of the Sunday Spectrum, your weekly snapshot of knowledge and culture.

What to expect from the Sunday Spectrum

  • Article - an article that I find interesting and informative

  • Content - Informative content that I have consumed in the last week

  • Entertainment - entertaining things I have consumed this week - could be a movie, tv series etc

  • Quote - a quote that will provide you with some value

Table of Contents

Articles / Education

Neurobiology of the Selfish–Selfless Spectrum

The article reviews how advances in biology, genetics, and neuroscience enhance our understanding of human behaviour across the selfish-selfless spectrum.

It discusses evolutionary pressures for altruism, the role of neuroplasticity and the dopaminergic reward system in shaping behaviour. It contrasts between psychopaths and altruists in terms of behavioural traits and neural circuitry. It highlights that both genetic inheritance and acquired cognitive learning significantly contribute to where individuals fall on this spectrum. Importantly, it suggests that mindfulness and compassion training can shift individuals towards more altruistic behaviour, integrating clinical approaches into managing mental health issues like depression and stress.

The Genetic Impact of Alcohol and Drugs on Addiction and Recovery

This article uncovers the complex genetic and neurobiological mechanisms of addiction. The research reveals that alcohol and drugs rewire the brain by altering gene expression, impacting memory and reward responses.

However, these changes are not irreversible; they can be influenced by medications and lifestyle adjustments. This newfound understanding opens the door to innovative treatments for addiction, emphasizing the dynamic nature of genetic expression and the potential for recovery through targeted interventions​​

Why we sleep - Matthew Walker

Through reading this I was taken on a profound journey into the critical and multifaceted role of sleep in our lives.

Walker, a neuroscientist and sleep expert, unravels the ways in which sleep affects our mental and physical health, brain function, and overall well-being. He sheds light on the detrimental effects of sleep deprivation and illuminates the science behind dreams. Through a blend of rigorous research and accessible explanations, Walker makes a compelling case for prioritizing sleep to enhance our health, productivity, and quality of life.

Content

MrBeast Explains How to Take Over The World

This podcast is an interview with Mr Beast the most popular YouTube personality in the world.

The video is an overview of his rise to fame and reveals the mindset of someone who is obsessed with their craft.

21 Brutally Honest Lessons About Life - Alex Hormozi

This podcast from Modern Wisdom features Alex Hormozi - a founder, investor and author.

Delve into Alex's world where his Twitter insights shine on life, psychology, business, and resilience. Discover why embracing the "control freak" label can be empowering, the secret to breaking the cycle of repeated mistakes, and the necessity of discomfort for staying on top. Alex also shares survival tips for facing public scrutiny, the art of honesty, and the liberating perspective of impermanence regarding critics.

Entertainment

Whiplash (2014)

I am very late to this, but "Whiplash" is a gripping drama that follows Andrew Neiman, an ambitious young jazz drummer, in his pursuit of perfection at a prestigious music conservatory.

Under the tutelage of Terence Fletcher, a teacher known for his ruthless teaching methods, Andrew pushes himself to the limits of his ability and sanity. The movie explores themes of ambition, obsession, and the high cost of greatness, culminating in a powerful and unforgettable climax that questions the price of excellence.

Quote

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."

Eleanor Roosevelt