Neuro-Enhancing Drugs

[Little32]

I was listening to NPR the other evening and there was a story about how neuro-enhancing drugs are increasingly being used by people without diagnosed conditions to gain competitive edges in school, at work, playing poker, etc.

So the question is, would or have you used prescription medication to gain a competitive edge? If so, why? If not, why not?

Another question does the use of such drugs for those purposes raise ethical questions?

Thoughts?

[IOPIKE]

This is a terrible post to put on these boards, as at my school people point the finger at the Greek community in regards to these "study drugs".

Really, we're smart and fun too!

[Little32]

Actually, the reporter did mention that this practice was allegedly quite common among fraternities in the Northeast. I am not trying to cast aspersions on any particular organization (which is why I did not bring up the greek associations), I was just really interested in the idea of the brain as the next frontier for "cosmetic" enhancement.

[5Knowledge1913]

Originally Posted by Little32

I was listening to NPR the other evening and there was a story about how neuro-enhancing drugs are increasingly being used by people without diagnosed conditions to gain competitive edges in school, at work, playing poker, etc.

So the question is, would or have you used prescription medication to gain a competitive edge? If so, why? If not, why not?

Another question does the use of such drugs for those purposes raise ethical questions?

Thoughts?

As a psychology major, I have learned the neurological damage that can be done from doing this, so I do not practice this.

I know people who use them to stay up late to study, cram, etc., but it is really not a good idea. I don't think that people understand that they are messing with their brain chemistry. One can become sick from doing this, even if the effects don't show right then.

Why it is popular within the Greek community, I would be interested to know.

[Little32]

The reporter cited the general academic rigor of Northeastern schools and the pressure to perform. I am not sure why this behavior might be particularly associated with greeks, except as just another way to negatively stereotype the organizations or because the data suggests that this happens more frequent among college students affliated with greek organizations.