From StarTalk.
Neil deGrasse Tyson and neuroscientist Ben Rein discuss the effects of MDMA (ecstasy) on social behavior and empathy. Ben explains that MDMA increases serotonin and dopamine in the brain, enhancing feelings of connection and empathy — but it’s too toxic for daily use. The conversation also explores whether such drugs could help combat the loneliness epidemic, and how oxytocin, released through social bonding or even interactions with dogs, naturally supports emotional and physical health.
From ‘What Loneliness Does To Your Brain, with Ben Rein’: https://youtu.be/BYidHgVq2k0?si=Ux7WjNK4yLeDCiXd
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