Novelty and Chaos Boost Brain Memory | Generated by AI
Question: I saw a TikTok video claiming that many young people have poorer memory than older people because they live too stable lives, not due to phones or overwork (like 996 schedules), but because of a lack of brain stimulation. The suggested solution is to actively create chaos and vary routines, with evidence from studies like mice in cages. It also emphasized that deep thinking while walking is important. What do you think?
Answer:
I find the idea from that TikTok video intriguing, but it’s a bit oversimplified—though it does touch on some valid scientific concepts. Let me break down my thoughts step by step, drawing from what we know about cognitive science, neuroscience, and psychology. I’ll address the core claims: the role of stability vs. novelty in memory, the dismissal of phones and work stress as factors, the “create chaos” approach, the mouse evidence, and the value of deep thinking while walking.
1. Young People’s Memory vs. Older Generations: Is Stability the Culprit?
The video’s premise that young people have “poorer memorization” than older folks due to overly stable lives has some merit, but it’s not the full picture. Memory isn’t universally worse in youth; in fact, younger brains often excel in episodic memory (recalling specific events) and working memory (holding info temporarily). However, older adults can outperform in semantic memory (general knowledge) and crystallized intelligence, built over a lifetime.
Where stability comes in: A predictable, routine life can indeed reduce cognitive stimulation. This aligns with the concept of “environmental enrichment” in neuroscience. In stable environments with little novelty, the brain gets less practice forming new neural connections, which are crucial for memory consolidation. Studies show that predictable routines can lead to cognitive stagnation, similar to how monotony in jobs or daily life correlates with higher risks of cognitive decline. For example, people in repetitive professions often report memory lapses, not from age, but from lack of mental challenge.
That said, the video downplays other factors like phones and “996” (the grueling 9 AM to 9 PM, 6 days a week work culture in some countries). Smartphones do impact attention and memory through constant distractions—research on “digital amnesia” suggests we offload memory to devices, weakening recall skills. Overwork from 996-style schedules causes chronic stress, elevating cortisol levels that damage the hippocampus (the brain’s memory center). So, while stability might play a role, it’s intertwined with modern tech and lifestyle pressures. Blaming only stability ignores these.
2. Actively Creating Chaos and Changing Routines: Does It Help?
The suggestion to “make chaos actively” by disrupting routines is essentially promoting novelty and variability, which has strong backing. Introducing unpredictability—like trying new routes to work, learning skills, or varying daily habits—stimulates neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to rewire itself. This can enhance memory by encouraging the growth of new synapses and improving hippocampal function.
Evidence supports this:
- In human studies, activities like travel, puzzles, or social interactions in varied settings boost cognitive reserve, protecting against memory decline.
- Randomized trials on lifestyle interventions show that breaking routines (e.g., via mindfulness with novelty elements) improves memory performance in young adults.
However, “chaos” needs to be managed—too much can lead to anxiety or burnout, which harms cognition. The key is balanced novelty: not total disruption, but intentional variety, like alternating exercise types or reading diverse topics.
3. The Mouse Evidence: Relevant to Humans?
The video’s reference to “mice in a jail” (likely meaning caged mice) draws from classic animal studies on environmental enrichment. In experiments dating back to the 1960s (e.g., by Marian Diamond and others), rats or mice in enriched environments—with toys, social interaction, and novel stimuli—developed thicker cerebral cortices, more synapses, and better memory/learning than those in barren cages. Deprived animals showed atrophy in brain areas linked to memory, mirroring cognitive deficits.
This translates somewhat to humans: Observational studies link enriched lifestyles (education, hobbies, social engagement) to better memory and lower dementia risk. For young people in “stable” (read: monotonous) modern lives—stuck in apartments, desks, or screens—this cage analogy holds water. But humans aren’t mice; our environments include digital stimulation, which can be enriching or depleting depending on use.
4. Deep Thinking While Walking: Why It Matters
This part is spot-on and backed by solid research. Walking promotes “divergent thinking” and problem-solving, as seen in studies where participants generate more creative ideas while moving. Philosophers like Aristotle and Nietzsche swore by walking for deep thought, and modern science explains why:
- Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, releasing BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which supports neuron growth and memory.
- Walking in nature or varied settings reduces rumination and enhances focus, per attention restoration theory.
- A 2014 Stanford study found that walking boosted creative output by 60% compared to sitting, and it aids memory recall by linking thoughts to spatial cues.
For young people, incorporating “thinking walks” could counter stability’s downsides without full chaos—it’s a low-effort way to stimulate the brain.
Overall Opinion
I partially agree with the video: Overly stable lives can dull memory by starving the brain of stimulation, and actively introducing variety (not extreme chaos) is a smart fix. The mouse studies provide a foundational analogy, and walking for deep thinking is an excellent, evidence-based habit. However, dismissing phones and work stress feels naive— they’re major contributors to cognitive strain in youth. A holistic approach would combine routine tweaks with mindful tech use and stress management.
If you’re experiencing this, start small: Alternate your commute, journal thoughts during walks, or learn a new skill weekly. Track your memory with apps or tests to see improvements. What sparked your interest in this video—personal experience or curiosity?
References:
- Environmental Enrichment and Brain Plasticity
- Digital Amnesia and Smartphone Effects on Memory
- Stanford Study on Walking and Creativity
- Hippocampal Damage from Chronic Stress