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Back to To the Point

To the Point

Hooked on Gadgets, Muddling Our Minds?

As you're buying holiday presents, think about this. Internet multi-tasking is both a magnificent research tool and an infuriating distraction. Neuroscientists are sure that it's transforming the human brain. What they're not sure about is whether the change is for better or worse.

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By Warren Olney • May 12, 2014 • 1 min read

As you're buying holiday presents, think about this. Internet multi-tasking is both a magnificent research tool and an infuriating distraction. Neuroscientists are sure that it's transforming the human brain. What they're not sure about is whether the change is for better or worse. Critics insist it's reducing the ability to focus, enforcing shallowness, stifling the creative impulse and breaking connections between human beings. Advocates say the media revolution is producing new ways of thinking and more human connectedness than ever before. In this rebroadcast of a program originally aired in June of this year, we hear both sides.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Frances Anderton

    architecture critic and author

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    Christian Bordal

    Managing Producer, Greater LA

  • KCRW placeholder

    Karen Radziner

    Managing Producer, To the Point & Which Way LA?

  • KCRW placeholder

    Matt Richtel

    Technology Reporter, New York Times

  • KCRW placeholder

    James Olds

    Professor of Neuroscience, George Mason University

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    William Powers

    author, 'Hamlet's BlackBerry'

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