Logo

    SYSK Selects: How Lobotomies Work

    enJanuary 19, 2019
    What are the benefits of the Capital One Venture X Card?
    How does DoorDash's Dash Pass save time and money?
    What is the topic discussed in the Stuff You Should Know podcast?
    How does Zigazoo create a safe space for children?
    What historical practice is contrasted with modern medical advancements?

    • Exploring Venture Cards, Dash Pass, and LobotomiesDiscover the Venture X Card's unlimited 2X miles, Dash Pass's savings on DoorDash, and the historical significance of lobotomies.

      The Capital One Venture X Card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase and premium travel benefits, while DoorDash's Dash Pass provides affordable delivery services with time and money savings. Meanwhile, the Stuff You Should Know podcast episode discusses the historical and intriguing topic of lobotomies, which was a significant part of 20th-century medical and cultural history. For film enthusiasts, this procedure is famously depicted in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." Overall, these diverse offerings and fascinating historical insights provide valuable information and entertainment.

    • Mental health treatment in the 1930s and 40sDespite brutal treatments like lobotomies, insulin shock therapy, and Metrazol therapy, mental hospitals prioritized creating docile patients over effective treatment, highlighting the need for ethical advancements in medical science.

      The treatment of mental illness in the 1930s and 40s was quite archaic and inhumane. Patients were often subjected to brutal procedures like lobotomies, insulin shock therapy, and Metrazol therapy, all of which produced convulsions and were believed to cure mental illness due to a suspected link between epilepsy and mental illness. These treatments resulted in severe side effects, including imbecility and loss of personality. Mental hospitals were overcrowded, and the focus was on creating docile patients rather than treating their mental illness effectively. This era in mental health treatment is a stark reminder of the importance of advancements in medical science and the ethical considerations that come with them.

    • Early Brain Surgery to Calm Mentally Ill PatientsThe prefrontal lobotomy, an outdated brain surgery, aimed to calm mentally ill patients by disrupting white matter connections in the prefrontal cortex, but was not precise and often damaged other areas of the brain.

      The prefrontal lobotomy, a procedure performed in the 1930s, aimed to sever the white matter connections between different areas of the prefrontal cortex to interrupt the transmission of impulses. This was an attempt to calm down mentally ill patients who had violent outbursts, based on earlier studies where monkeys' prefrontal cortexes were removed. The procedure, initially using alcohol injections, was not precise and ended up damaging other areas of the brain. The Portuguese neurosurgeon, Dr. Antonio Egas Moniz, saw potential in this approach and refined it using a more precise drilling method, which was based on an ancient brain surgery technique called trepination. The prefrontal cortex is an important part of the brain responsible for executive functions, including decision-making, planning, reasoning, personality, and personal expression. By damaging the white matter connections, the lobotomy intended to disrupt the transmission of impulses originating in the gray matter of the prefrontal cortex. However, the early technique was not effective due to the difficulty of controlling the spread of alcohol in the brain.

    • Exploring the Impact of Technology on Children and Advancements in TechTechnology shapes children's experiences through platforms like Zigazoo, while advancements in tech make tasks easier and more efficient. However, it's crucial to remember technology's history and potential risks, such as those of trepination and lobotomy, and use it responsibly.

      Technology plays a significant role in shaping the experiences of children, with platforms like Zigazoo offering a safe and fun social media experience. Meanwhile, advancements in technology, such as those celebrated by Dell Technologies during their anniversary sale, can make everyday tasks easier and more efficient. However, it's important to remember the history of technology and its potential risks, as illustrated by the controversial practice of trepination and lobotomy. In the past, these procedures were used with varying degrees of success, but thankfully, advancements in technology and medical knowledge have led to safer and more effective methods. Overall, technology can bring about both positive and negative impacts, highlighting the importance of using it responsibly and safely.

    • Dr. Walter Freeman's Controversial 'Soul Surgery'Dr. Walter Freeman popularized a quick, inexpensive lobotomy method called Transorbital lobotomy, which involved using an ice pick and hammer through the eye socket, but it was controversial, risky, and often ineffective, causing significant harm and loss of personality.

      Dr. Walter Freeman, in an effort to make lobotomy a simpler and quicker procedure, developed the Transorbital lobotomy, which involved using an ice pick and hammer to reach the frontal cortex through the eye socket. This method, which did not require an operating room or a neurosurgeon, gained widespread popularity in the mid-20th century. However, it was a controversial and often ineffective procedure that carried significant risks, including the potential for rendering patients vegetative or emotionally numb. Freeman, who did not use anesthetic and performed the procedure at a rapid pace, referred to it as "soul surgery" due to the loss of personality and individuality it entailed. Despite its questionable effectiveness and ethical concerns, Freeman toured the country performing Transorbital lobotomies in a specially equipped vehicle, ultimately performing thousands of procedures in over two dozen states between 1946 and 1967.

    • The Controversial Lobotomy ProcedureThe lobotomy procedure, popularized in the mid-20th century, lacked a solid scientific basis and was often performed in a rough and unguided manner, causing harm and distress to patients, including death.

      The lobotomy procedure, popularized by Dr. Walter Freeman in the mid-20th century, was a controversial and questionable medical practice. Despite its widespread use, it lacked a solid scientific basis and was often performed in a rough and unguided manner, causing distress and harm to patients. Some even died during the procedure. The procedure, which involved inserting ice picks into the brain to sever connections, was criticized for turning insane people into idiots and violating human dignity. Notable cases include the lobotomy of Rosemary Kennedy, sister of President John F. Kennedy, who was left with the mental capacity of an infant. Another patient, Howard Dolly, met Freeman under unfortunate circumstances at the age of 12 and ended up under his care due to his stepmother's dissatisfaction with his behavior. Freeman's fast and careless approach led to tragic results, such as the death of a patient during a photo opportunity. Overall, the lobotomy era raises important ethical questions about medical experimentation and the treatment of mental health patients.

    • A life of wonder and reflection after a lobotomyHoward Dolly's story shows the complexities of human identity, the stigma of mental health, and the power of resilience and self-discovery.

      The life of Howard Dolly, as shared in his radio piece "My Lobotomy" on NPR, serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and uncertainties of human identity. Dolly, who underwent a lobotomy at a young age due to his daydreaming and perceived behavioral issues, spent his life wondering how different his life could have been. His story sheds light on the stigma surrounding mental health and the consequences of societal judgments. Despite the challenges he faced, including addiction and mental illness, Dolly's resilience and determination led him to reconnect with his father and find acceptance. This powerful narrative highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and the human capacity for growth and self-discovery. It also underscores the need for compassionate and supportive approaches to mental health issues.

    • Spring Break and Tech Upgrades: A Refreshing CombinationSpring break brings opportunities for tech upgrades and reflection on medical history, such as the decline of lobotomies and the rise of pharmaceutical treatments

      This spring break, consider trying out Zigazoo to safely share vacation experiences with friends. Meanwhile, Dell Technologies is celebrating its 40th anniversary with savings on next-gen tech, including the XPS 13 plus with Windows 11. Thorazine's introduction in 1954 marked the decline of lobotomies, a once common neurosurgical procedure. Dr. Freeman, a prominent lobotomist, faced controversy after a fatal lobotomy on a housewife in 1967, leading to his ban from surgery. Despite some success stories, lobotomies raised ethical concerns and were eventually replaced by pharmaceutical treatments. So, enjoy your tech upgrades this spring and reflect on the evolution of medical practices.

    • Historical Use and Controversy of LobotomiesLobotomies, a procedure that involves destroying white matter and emotional connections in the brain, were once common but are now controversial due to ethical concerns and advancements in mental health treatments. Some countries still perform lobotomies, and listeners are encouraged to learn more about their history.

      The discussion revolved around the historical use of lobotomies and their continued practice today, despite the stigma and ethical concerns. The speakers shared their personal perspectives on the topic, expressing relief that they wouldn't have to face the lobotomy procedure during the 1940s due to their mental health conditions. They also highlighted the unsettling fact that lobotomies, although more precise with the use of MRIs as guides, are still performed in some countries, and the procedure involves destroying white matter and emotional connections in the brain. The speakers encouraged listeners to learn more about lobotomies and the history of their use. Another topic touched upon was the recommendation of audiobooks from Audible.com, with the speakers sharing their favorite titles, including "1491" by Charles Mann and "I'm an American and So Can You" by Stephen Colbert. Listeners were encouraged to sign up for a free audiobook download by visiting www.audiblepodcast.com/stuff.

    • Man as an integral part of natureMan's perspective as an expression of the universe manipulating itself challenges the Western view of being above nature, with examples from philosophy, technology, and customer service.

      Man's manipulation of chemical compounds, such as high-fructose corn syrup, is a natural occurrence and an expression of the universe manipulating itself. The listener, Max, who shared this perspective, is a philosophy major with a passion for world religion, metaphysical theory, and man's relationship to nature in the universe. He argued that man is not separate from nature but an integral part of it. This perspective challenges the Western culture and religion's point of view that man is above nature. In the realm of technology, Zigazoo, a social network for kids, provides a safe space for children to share their videos and express their creativity, making everyone feel special. Discover card offers access to excellent customer service and fraud liability, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their status, feels valued.

    Was this summary helpful?

    Recent Episodes from Stuff You Should Know

    Would A Love Drug Be Ethical?

    Would A Love Drug Be Ethical?

    What if science could create a drug that made you connect with people more deeply, let your emotions flow more openly, and sparked love and attachment in you for other people? Would you take it? Better hurry and decide because they might be on their way.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Stuff You Should Know
    enSeptember 17, 2024

    Selects: How Futurology Works

    Selects: How Futurology Works

    Science fiction writers have made some amazingly accurate predictions over the years, but in 1945 the pace of technological change created a field that spun off of sci-fi forecasting, futurology. Learn all about it with Josh and Chuck in this classic episode.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Stuff You Should Know
    enSeptember 07, 2024

    Related Episodes

    Episode 1, Part 2: A Latina CEO Builds Green Tech for The Pentagon and a Cumbia Memelord Climbs the Charts

    Episode 1, Part 2: A Latina CEO Builds Green Tech for The Pentagon and a Cumbia Memelord Climbs the Charts

    In Part II of the first episode of Techqueria, reporter Jose Fermoso continues his conversations with Latinx people dealing with the pandemic.

    Dr. Nyah Zarate, a green power tech standout with multiple U.S. Department of Defense awards, explains how her workers are staying positive, how getting into the Purdue Ph.D. program changed her life, and why thinking long-term about the current political landscape is vitally important.

    And emerging cumbia star Ivan Montemayor, known as Mister Cumbia, describes his humble origins before he reached the top of the charts earlier this summer with his catchy earworm of a song, the "Cumbia de Coronavirus." 


    Host: Jose Fermoso

    Producer: Neil Godbole

    A Critique of Capitalism With Author, Professor, and Director, Bernd Stahl

    A Critique of Capitalism With Author, Professor, and Director, Bernd Stahl

    Technology, philosophy, and society. We have been primed to think that a capitalist system is capable of giving everyone the compensation they deserve—but we also know that this isn’t always the case, especially for those who may need it the most.

    How do we take a closer look at the technologies and the organizations that provide the quality of life we have now? A foundation on the theories that apply to our circumstances is a step in the right direction.

    In this episode, Alexander McCaig explores these ideas with Bernd Stahl, author of Information Systems: Critical Perspectives. Bernd is also a Professor of Critical Research in Technology and Director of the Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility at De Montfort University.


    Is Emancipation in Today’s Labor System Possible? The process of emancipating someone may seem like a noble goal. However, it can be difficult to gauge whether or not we are actually doing harm by taking this opportunity on their behalf. For example, one common perspective of companies is that they have the social responsibility to make profits because it would be distributed to the shareholders and trickle down to employees.

    Unfortunately, there are plenty of people who do not participate in this success and are not capable of being a part of this economic system. Wealth generation and opportunities to it are vastly different, especially in a capitalist structure.

    There are plenty of possible approaches to consider for this problem. Those who are pessimists believe that the system inherently ensures that some people will always be “outside.” As a result, the only true solution would be to implement radical change.

    Others believe that information systems can be used to make the economy more inclusive and spread wealth more evenly. With such polarizing views on how the labor system should be structured, it may seem like an impossible task to bring everyone into a discussion where they can give their own benchmarks for what is best.


    The Impact of Today’s Environment on Our Reflexivity: The magnitude of such a feat is further emphasized when we think of the tech-driven world we live in. Due to our different backgrounds and preferences, Bernd points out that the idea of maximizing individual potential can vary widely from one person to another. The essence of critical theory would be to have a society where people are free to flourish, without other individuals or systems telling them what success is and how it should be achieved.

    It’s an extension of our capacity to practice our individual liberties. Sadly, those in power often influence the system to fulfill their vested interests—and a crucial part in making this possible is taking away our ability to self-reflect, or to practice reflexivity.

    This is TARTLE’s mission: to give people the avenue to practice critical reflection and self-awareness, bringing back that sense of common responsibility to humanity one step at a time.


    Surveillance Capitalism and Its Effects on Human Behavior: In such a tech-driven landscape, the provision of goods and services does not provide a lot of opportunities to interact with other people. Bernd illustrates this by pointing to electronic marketplaces and discussing how straightforward the transaction is.

    If this seems like an advantage, we need to dig a little deeper. We are no longer encouraged to think of the human realities behind eBay, Amazon, or other e-commerce platforms. All we need to consider is the availability of the product, estimated shipping time, and the most competitive cost.

    As a result, these platforms discourage us from taking more discursive action—all a part of surveillance capitalism efforts by big internet service providers to prevent us from thinking deeper about our purchases. The formula across different systems is similar: structure our work, extract our data, and lead us to buy something that we may or may not need. Regardless, the end result is to influence the general population’s behavior so that they are at an advantage.

    “The potential for giving people freedom or reducing their freedom is there in any type of technology, across different types of political systems, even though it may look very different in different systems,” Bernd concluded.

    Modern technology draws parallels to a panopticon, where prisoners would be watched around the clock. While the original intention of this set-up was to benefit the prisoner through observation and feedback, the term is now being used as a mechanism of control.

    Indeed, when we are under constant surveillance from devices we’ve become so reliant on, it can either have a chilling effect or a normalizing effect. The outcomes are undetermined, but it certainly plays a crucial role in altering human behavior. Transparency in information systems will be important in bringing back the power, and the capacity to speak, to the people.


    Closing Thoughts: Awareness of the Human Ecosystem: When asked about his parting words, Bernd encouraged listeners to think of humanity as an ecosystem: the reality that we live in a society of other individuals and other actors, with unique needs and desires. It’s a fragile ecosystem, and one that we should try and balance in our capacity, as stewards of the earth and of each other.

    Businesses and information systems were previously thought to be all about improving efficiencies and maximizing productivity. However, we’ve moved far beyond such a profit-driven perspective; now, Bernd hopes we remember that technology is always socio-technical, with human beings working alongside modern devices to improve the living circumstances of their fellow human beings.

    It is this sense of urgency to uplift the living conditions for humans across the board that encouraged us to develop TARTLE. Data-driven measures are the key to rebuilding the self-awareness we’ve lost in the great tech race for the boldest, biggest, and flashiest devices. The power is back in your hands.

     

    What’s your data worth? www.tartle.co

     

    A Critique of Capitalism With Author, Professor, and Director, Bernd Stahl by TARTLE is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

    Tcast is brought to you by TARTLE. A global personal data marketplace that allows users to sell their personal information anonymously when they want to, while allowing buyers to access clean ready to analyze data sets on digital identities from all across the globe.

     


    The show is hosted by Co-Founder and Source Data Pioneer Alexander McCaig and Head of Conscious Marketing Jason Rigby.

     


    What's your data worth?

     


    Find out at: https://tartle.co/

     


    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TARTLE

     


    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TARTLEofficial/

     


    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tartle_official/

     


    Twitter: https://twitter.com/TARTLEofficial

     


    Spread the word!

    #766 - Jonathan Haidt - The Hidden Dangers Of Social Media On Mental Health

    #766 - Jonathan Haidt - The Hidden Dangers Of Social Media On Mental Health
    Jonathan Haidt is a Professor at New York University’s Stern School of Business, social psychologist, and an author. The kids are not alright. Mental health is plummeting while anxiety and depression is on the rise. Just what are the contributing elements? Is it social media? Helicopter parenting? 24 hour news? Or something else? Expect to learn why every generation complains about the next one, what is so important about the development of kids between 8 and 12 years old, what the biggest problem is with test scores in primary school children, the real harm of technology on kids, why words like ‘trigger’ and ‘fragility’ are such a problem, if there is a way to do identity politics well and much more... Sponsors: See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: https://chriswillx.com/deals Get up to 32% discount on the best supplements from Momentous at https://livemomentous.com/modernwisdom (automatically applied at checkout) Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period from Shopify at https://www.shopify.com/modernwisdom (automatically applied at checkout) Get a Free Sample Pack of all LMNT Flavours with your first box at https://www.drinklmnt.com/modernwisdom (automatically applied at checkout) Extra Stuff: Get my free reading list of 100 books to read before you die: https://chriswillx.com/books Try my productivity energy drink Neutonic: https://neutonic.com/modernwisdom Episodes You Might Enjoy: #577 - David Goggins - This Is How To Master Your Life: http://tinyurl.com/43hv6y59 #712 - Dr Jordan Peterson - How To Destroy Your Negative Beliefs: http://tinyurl.com/2rtz7avf #700 - Dr Andrew Huberman - The Secret Tools To Hack Your Brain: http://tinyurl.com/3ccn5vkp - Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswillx Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/chriswillx YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/modernwisdompodcast Email: https://chriswillx.com/contact - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Logo

    © 2024 Podcastworld. All rights reserved

    Stay up to date

    For any inquiries, please email us at hello@podcastworld.io