The lack of intimate, face to face human contact is causing record levels of depression and loneliness. Yet, it seems people, especially young adults, continually choose screen time over the opportunity to physically and emotionally connect with others. Is this a phenomenon of human evolution, or is this the objective of device and software corporations to increase advertising revenue? To seek out the antidote for the increase of device addiction and the decline of human connection, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen talks with a leader in the field of social and consumer neuroscience, Dr. Carl D. Marci about the impact of digital technology on the brain. Dr. Marci talks about how our devices can cause addiction and who is the most susceptible. He also shares tips on how to consciously prepare ourselves and our children for the next wave of AI technology and concrete findings from his book, REWIRED: Protecting Your Brain in the Digital Age.

Carl D. Marci MD —  Our Brains and Technology:

• Carl describes the phenomenon known as Tik Tok ticks, a disorder that was exacerbated by screen time spent during the pandemic. [2:41]
• Carl explains how our brains are wired for pleasure and why we find digital technology instantly gratifying. [5:55]
• How do we determine who is more at risk of susceptibility to device addiction? [10:32]
• Carl shares the antidote for digital distraction to obtain a high-quality of life. [17:45]
• Carl explains the major difference between watching a video on a screen to a hug from another human being. [22:09]
• Tips for preparing for the next wave of AI technology. [25:40]

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About Lisa’s guest:

Carl D. Marci, MD, a leader in the fields of social and consumer neuroscience, is Chief Medical Officer at Cava Capital and was formerly the Chief Neuroscientist at the Nielsen Company. He also is on the faculty of Harvard Medical School and is a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital.

“Loneliness is toxic. It’s deadly.” - Lisa Cypers Kamen

Searching for more tips for sustainable happiness? Visit www.harvestinghappiness.com!