I found this NYT article to be interesting. This is saying that when we watch something on TV or focus on a given activity, we gradually become desensitized to it. Commercials or interruptions "reset" our attention spans and allow us to start back at zero. Although they suggested that more engaging activities like working or playing music might not be improved by interruption.
This reminded me of the 1st chapter from "Unweaving the Rainbow" by Richard Dawkins. It discusses how we become desensitized to our own experiences and how we are prevented from realizing how amazing they really are.
There is an anaesthetic of familiarity, a sedative of ordinariness, which dulls the senses and hides the wonders of existence.
-Richard Dawkins
I like the way you think Pete. I may have to read that book next.
ReplyDelete