hp-dave-logo.svg
Subscribe

EP 1152

1152. The Science Behind Memory

Dr. Charan Ranganath, a cognitive neuroscientist, joins me to discuss the mechanisms of memory, the promise of psychedelics in memory research, and the ethics of memory enhancement. We also explore how our memories construct our understanding of the world, our identity, and our predictions for the future.

Subscribe To The Human Upgrade

In this Episode of The Human Upgrade™...

In today’s episode you’ll explore the complexities of memory with Dr. Charan Ranganath, a top expert in cognitive neuroscience. This episode takes you through the fascinating ways our brains record, process, and utilize memories to navigate daily life and shape our futures. You’ll learn how memory impacts decision-making, the truth about common myths, and the role of groundbreaking research in our understanding of cognitive function. Dr. Ranganath shares insights from his book “Why We Remember,” shedding light on the brain’s ability to predict and prepare for what comes next. Whether you’re a seasoned biohacker or just starting, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on the science of memory that will change how you think about your mind. 

Sponsors 

Download a transcript of this show

"Our memories aren't just a record of the past; they are the lens through which we view the present and shape the future."

DR. CHARAN RANGANATH

(00:01:03) The Interplay of Memory and Reality 

  • Dr. Ranganath’s journey into neuroscience and the fabric of memory. 
  • The profound impact of memory on shaping our perception and existence. 

(00:04:51) Memory Myths vs. Science 

  • Debunking common memory misconceptions. 
  • How accurate and imaginative memories differ in cognitive processing. 

(00:12:27) Psychedelics and Memory Research 

  • Exploring the frontier of psychedelics in enhancing and healing memory functions. 
  • Discussing the potential and ethics of memory manipulation. 

(00:16:32) Memory Enhancement: Ethical Considerations 

  • The balance between enhancing memory and maintaining ethical boundaries. 
  • The implications of potentially reshaping our neural pathways. 

(00:21:10) Predictive Memory and ‘Spider Sense’ 

  • How our memories contribute to predicting future events. 
  • Understanding the ‘spider sense’ phenomenon through cognitive science. 

(00:29:17) The Evolution of Memory with Age 

  • The natural progression of memory capabilities throughout life stages. 
  • Emphasizing the value of experience and wisdom over raw memory retention. 

(00:33:27) Pattern Recognition and Intelligence 

  • Delving into how pattern recognition contributes to human intelligence and decision-making. 
  • Examining the role of memory in strategic thought processes. 

(00:38:34) Clearing Up Common Misconceptions 

  • Dr. Ranganath addresses and clarifies widespread myths about memory. 
  • Shedding light on the complex nature of memory formation and recall. 

(00:40:54) Dietary Influences on Memory 

  • The connection between nutrition and cognitive function. 
  • Strategies for supporting memory through diet and lifestyle choices. 

(00:50:18) The Predictive Power of Memory 

  • Discussing memory’s ability to forecast potential outcomes. 
  • The role of memory in intuitive and subconscious awareness. 

(00:55:10) Crafting a Life of Memorable Experiences 

  • Strategies for creating and retaining meaningful memories. 
  • The interplay between living a full life and cultivating rich memories. 

(00:59:42) Dr. Ranganath’s Vision for Lifelong Memory Health 

  • Dr. Ranganath shares his aspirations for memory preservation and enhancement. 
  • A discussion on the desired longevity of healthy cognitive function. 

 

Resources 

Get your copy of ‘Why We Remember‘ by Dr. Charan Ranganath 

Dave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books 

Follow Dr. Ranganath on Instagram: @TheMemoryDoc 

Enjoy the show!

LISTEN:

“Follow” or “subscribe” to The Human Upgrade™ with Dave Asprey on your favorite podcast platform.

REVIEW: 

Go to Apple Podcasts at daveasprey.com/apple and leave a (hopefully) 5-star rating and a creative review.

FEEDBACK:

Got a comment, idea or question for the podcast? Submit via this form!

SOCIAL:

Follow @thehumanupgradepodcast on Instagram and Facebook.

JOIN: 

Learn directly from Dave Asprey alongside others in a membership group: ourupgradecollective.com.

Subscribe To The Human Upgrade

Similar Episodes

podcast-divider-bottom.png

Subscribe To The Human Upgrade

BOOKS

4X NEW YORK TIMES
BEST-SELLING SCIENCE AUTHOR

AVAILABLE NOW

Smarter
Not Harder

Smarter Not Harder: The Biohacker’s Guide to Getting the Body and Mind You Want is about helping you to become the best version of yourself by embracing laziness while increasing your energy and optimizing your biology.

If you want to lose weight, increase your energy, or sharpen your mind, there are shelves of books offering myriad styles of advice. If you want to build up your strength and cardio fitness, there are plenty of gyms and trainers ready to offer you their guidance. What all of these resources have in common is they offer you a bad deal: a lot of effort for a little payoff. Dave Asprey has found a better way.
ORDER NOW
media-section-06-img.png

Also Available

Fast-this-way-199×300-1.png
superhuman-199×300-1.png
headstrong-199×300-1.png
bulletproof-diet-197×300-1.png
game-changers-200×300-1.png
bulletproof-the-cookbook-247×300-1.png
footer-line-img.png
footer-tab-img.png

Get on
“The Inside Track”
with Dave

Subscribe to become an “Insider”, and receive weekly biohacking tips and tech directly from Dave to start hacking your way to stronger mental performance and physical results.

See What Trouble Dave’s Getting Into on Social

GO TOP
hp-dave-logo.svg

Terms of service | Privacy Policy | Affiliate Disclosure & Health Claims |
Dave Asprey 2024

influex-logo-footer.svg

Start hacking your way to better than standard performance and results.

Receive weekly biohacking tips and tech by becoming a Dave Asprey insider.

By sharing your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Subscribe