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Dr Love: oxytocin explains growth of social networking and Health 2.0 |
| Monday, 28 June 2010 07:30 |
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A 'must read' for this week - it may take 10-15 minutes - is an article in Fast Company magazine by Adam L Penenberg who subjects himself to a number of tests relating to oxytocin (the 'cuddle chemical') and social networking conducted by neuroeconomist Paul Zak, who has been dubbed 'Dr Love'. The results point to an explanation for the phenominal growth and addictive nature of social networking sites, which clearly has implications for their use in health information and condition management - Health 2.0, in other words. "Known for years as the hormone forging the unshakable bond between mothers and their babies, oxytocin is now, thanks largely to Zak, recognized as the human stimulant of empathy, generosity, trust, and more. It is, Zak says, the "social glue" that adheres families, communities, and societies, and as such, acts as an "economic lubricant" that enables us to engage in all sorts of transactions." On page 3 is an indication that social networking in itself is good for your health by reducing cardiovascular risks associated with lack of social support. The author's brain appears to have interpreted tweeting as if he were directly interacting with people he cared about or had empathy for. E-connection is processed in the brain like an in-person connection... Social Networking Affects Brains Like Falling in Love. |
