https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9677443-is-the-internet-changing-the-way-you-think

Book ordered 20 October.  

 

Contents

1       YES

2       Gemini says this about 1.5

   2.1   Digital Neuroplasticity

   2.2   Structural Changes (Anatomy)  

   2.3   Functional Changes (Activity and Connectivity)

   2.4   Nature of Neuroplasticity  

 

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1   YES

  1. Yes, the internet is changing the way we think, primarily by affecting attention, memory, and the way we process information.
  3. Constant multitasking can lead to shorter attention spans, while the ability to find information instantly may reduce reliance on long-term memory, a phenomenon sometimes called the "Google effect".
  5. Neuroscientists have evidence that the brain's neural circuitry is changing in response to how we use the internet.  more

source

 

2  Gemini says this about 1.5:

2.1

  1. Neuroscientists have evidence that the brain's neural circuitry is changing in response to how we use the internet.
  3. Yes, neuroscientists have substantial evidence that the brain's neural circuitry is changing in response to internet use, a phenomenon often described as digital neuroplasticity ðŸ§ . 
  5. These changes are observed in both the structure and function of the brain, leading to both potential benefits and concerns.

 

2.2  Structural Changes (Anatomy)

 

2.2.1

Studies, particularly those involving Internet Addiction (IA), have identified measurable alterations in brain matter:

 

2.2.2 

Decreased Gray and White Matter Volume: A reduction in gray matter volume (GMV) and white matter volume (WMV) has been reported in adolescents with digital addiction. These reductions are often seen in areas critical for:

 

2.2.2.1

Executive Function: Including the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) and Orbitofrontal Cortex (OFC), which are vital for decision-making, impulse control, and planning.

2.2.2.2  Reward Processing: Changes have been noted in structures within the basal ganglia circuitry, linked to the brain's reward system.

  1. Sensorimotor Activities: Regions like the Supplementary Motor Area (SMA) and the pre/postcentral gyrus, potentially related to repetitive actions like clicking or scrolling
  2. Reduced Cortical Thickness: Decreased cortical thickness has been observed in areas like the Orbitofrontal Cortex (OFC), which can be associated with higher impulsivity.

 

2.3   Functional Changes (Activity and Connectivity)

The way brain networks communicate is also being altered by high-intensity or addictive internet use:

2.3.1 

Disrupted Neural Networks: Internet addiction is associated with disrupted signaling (functional connectivity) in critical neural networks, including:

2.3.1.2

Executive Control Network: This network is responsible for attention, planning, and decision-making. Disruptions here can impair cognitive control and increase impulsivity.

2.3.1.3

Reward System: Excessive use, particularly social media or gaming, triggers the release of dopamine via a reward loop (like for notifications or "likes"). This can "rewire" the brain's reward system, making it seek immediate, short-term digital rewards and potentially mirroring pathways seen in substance addiction.

2.3.1.4

  1. Default Mode Network (DMN): This network is active during mind-wandering or self-introspection, and its functional connectivity is sometimes reported to be disrupted during focused tasks.

  3. Altered Attention and Memory: The constant stream of notifications, pop-ups, and rapid content switching trains the brain for divided attention and rapid focus shifts (multitasking), which may come at the expense of sustained concentration (deep focus) and long-term memory consolidation. Some research suggests a reliance on the internet for information can lead to "cognitive offloading," where the brain relies on external sources rather than its own memory.

 

2.4  Nature of Neuroplasticity

2.4.1

It is important to note that neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life—is a two-sided coin:

 

         HEADS       Potential Negative Impact)             

                                                                               )   more here  

         TAILS          Potential Positive Impact )             

2.4.2  Cognition 

Reduced attention span, weaker sustained focus, reliance on "cognitive offloading" (external memory).

2.4.3  Enhanced multitasking skills    

          improved visual-spatial skills (e.g., from video games), and faster information processing. 

2.4.4  Brain Structure

Reduced gray and white matter volume in areas of cognitive control and emotion regulation (with addiction).

Increased neural activity in areas related to problem-solving and decision-making for experienced users engaging in complex online tasks (e.g., searching).