David Anderson is a neurobiologist who gave a talk arguing that the brain is too complex to be treated like a "bag of chemicals" by psychiatric drugs. He demonstrated that different neurons trigger different reactions in separate brain regions, so modifying the entire brain uniformly is ineffective. This "pour it all in" approach also causes dangerous side effects. Instead of this blind method, he advocates studying similar animals to determine the specific sources of problems and develop more targeted solutions. While rats and fruit flies provide an accessible model, he remains curious despite uncertainties about their emotional experiences.

2. Neurobiologist at the California
David Anderson: Institute of Technology

3. In his talk entitled:
“Your brain is more than a bag of Chemicals”
He talks about the
idea that Modern
psychiatric drugs
treat the chemistry
of the brain as a
collective “bag”
instead of the
incredibly complex
organ that it really
is.

4. He supports this through the
demonstration that certain
neurons trigger different
reactions in different
sections of the brain.
Meaning that modifying the
entire brain, like pouring oil
on the engine block, is not
effective.

5. Furthermore, all of the dangerous side
effects of these forms of medication
results from this “pour it all in” kind of
methodology. It’s dangerous because
we’re not treating sources, we’re
effectively going in blind.
Instead of looking
for the sources of
these problems.

6. His idea then, is to study animals that are similar
to humans and determine where these
problems arise. Through that, we can create
more effective solutions.
He believes that it’s currently impossible
to do these kinds of tests on Humans.
Thus, laboratory rats and fruit flies are an
easy, simple, and cost effective alternative.

7. He remains curious
and passionate about
his work.
Maintaining his work
despite not being
sure that the Fruit
Flies he is working
with, are capable of
complex emotional
states.

8. The raise your hand if
you know anyone who
suffers from a Mental
Illness immediately
gathers
Your attention and
He clearly cares about, describes his interest in
and is passionate about a single question.
his cause. Befitting his
disposition and nature, I
give him a 4/5.

9. His slides focus on his overall statement. While some
of his slides are not chosen for artistic quality…

10. Most of his supplement his points as he goes about his speech. Appearing to
the audience to visually demonstrate a verbal point.

11. His speech remains
informative and
clear. His intention is
to explain his view, as
he is aware that his
audience is not well
versed within his
area of expertise.
Treating his
audience as king,
he respectfully
reveals
information in an
appropriate and
straightforward
manner.

12. In comparison:
Both Sir Ken Robinson,
and David Anderson
speak passionately about
their beliefs.
Supporting these beliefs
with intelligent, well
worded commentary and
reasoning.

13. In contrast, Sir
Robinson focuses
on humor,
connecting with his
audience and the
urgency that he
believes his cause
must be applied.

14. Mr. Anderson, in
contrast comes across
as patient, knowing
that his studies will
probably continue as
things move forward
as they may lead to
newer and better
methods to resolve
their problems.

15. Ultimately, be passionate. If you are interested in
your work, your interest will show through your
inflection, through how you carry yourself.

16. Sources:
Video:http://www.ted.com/talks/david_anderson_your_brain_is_more_tha
n_a_bag_of_chemicals.html
http://www.ted.com/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html
Images:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IA5nokOFh84/THnwzI5t5jI/AAAAAAAAEZI/WDbNY
sdik1s/s1600/Venn+Diagram+of+Psychoactive+Drugs.jpg
http://celldynamics.org/celldynamics/people/hoyos/images/Neuron0.jpg
http://www.123rf.com/photo_10750147_x-ray-close-up-with-brain-and-skull-
concept.html