Okay, we’ve done body mods. So we’re halfway there – time for brain mods.
The problem with brain mods is that surgical procedures are pretty much out of the question. So far, at least. Cutting into the brain and sticking something in there just doesn’t work yet. However, there are still several ways to approach brain modification.
The easiest is drugs. Recreational drugs such as marijuana and cocaine have a powerful effect on the brain, but they tend to produce a crippling effect on the thought processes – not exactly what we’re looking for. However, not all drugs are so debilitating. Many prescription and over-the-counter medicines have side effects that you may find pleasant. Experimentation is the key – and don’t be afraid to mix and match.
To round out drugs there’s also caffeine. Small doses of caffeine, as found in many drinks, increase brainpower and energy. Highly recommended. Be careful about larger doses, as the brain tends to fry itself out.
Next up is music. Yes, music.
It’s well-known that playing classical music while studying or working increases your productivity, and this should be exploited at every possible opportunity. Other music can be used to induce other effects as well. Hard rock can build confidence, happy music can calm (“Light and Day” is recommended) and rap can annoy the crap out you. Keep a wide range available for when needed.
Finally, there’s studying. While many claim that carefully studying a subject can make one more intelligent and knowledgeable, the payoff just isn’t worth the effort. Don’t bother.
The music is really a good idea. I can think of many times when I flipped on classical music as I drove home, and the stresses of the day all sorta fixed themselves. What I have for homework, what – if any – of it is worth doing, crap with my classes, I can easily sort out my day when I got that music playing. Good post CPH.
Yeah I like the music idea too, except I can’t stand classical music. I can’t stand pretty much anything without a power cord in it. I have found that hard rock/metal all the time makes me happy, confident and I seem to be doing well in school. ^_^
As for theoretical brain mods, with micro chips in the brain and such, I am much more open to than body mods. Having the ability to access the internet without a computer infront of me would be cool. Hell, being able to do anything they did in GitS would be awsome!