If you couldn't tell by some of my previous posts, I'm fascinated by brains (and no, I'm not a zombie). What they can do, how it leads us to smart or dumb decisions or any decisions at all, how the brain interprets and misinterprets and extrapolates, how it can affect behavior and "free will" (if such a thing exists), human and animal intelligence in general, and so on. Well, here's something new to think about: http://doubtfulnews.com/2013/09/mor...oplasma-infection-may-have-permanent-effects/ I just thought this was interesting enough to share.
I'm still not over the fact parasites can alter the brain function of "higher evolved" animals on such a level, the fact that it may be permanent makes it even scarier. And more fascinating. But definitely scarier.
Well, it was bound to have permanent effects, really. The parasites aim to continue using their "host" until it dies, and often that means prolonged contact. From there it's simple - sustaining a temporary effect over a prolonged period of time is often more difficult than causing the same, or similar, effect to become permanent.
