“In today’s digital age, our cell phones are our constant companions, providing us with a seemingly endless stream of new information. This constant influx of novelty can be overwhelming and can have a significant impact on our brain’s ability to focus and pay attention, ” explains Jelle Bruineberg, a philosopher from the University of Copenhagen.
In a recent paper published in the journal Neuroscience of Consciousness, Bruineberg suggests that “it’s not the vast amounts of online information that make it difficult for us to stay focused, but rather the easily accessible possibilities for novelty and action built into digital technology that our minds can’t resist.” This craving for novelty is a fundamental aspect of how our brains work, he adds.
But why do we spend so much time scrolling, clicking, and surfing through content online? Bruineberg argues that “the action of checking our phone gives us easy access to a very satisfying reward: a piece of novel information.” This is in contrast to a library, where the information is static and doesn’t change in the way that digital content does. “It is the combination of effortless access and changing content that makes us so susceptible to developing ‘checking habits,'” he explains.
Bruineberg points out that “there has always been a tension between attention and information, but the advent of digital technology has introduced new and more pervasive ways of being distracted.” This mismatch between our minds and modern digital technologies is at the root of the problem, he argues. “We are not equipped to deal with environments that allow for frictionless engagement and task-switching, practically infinite amounts of easily available novelty and rewards.”
So, what can we do to avoid these unhealthy outcomes?
“Firstly, we need to be aware of the impact that our phones and other digital devices have on our attention and focus,” advises Bruineberg. “It’s important to be mindful of how much time we are spending online and to take breaks from our screens.”
Additionally, “we can take steps to constrain our digital environments. For example, we can set specific times for checking our email or social media, rather than constantly refreshing our inbox or feed.” This guarantees that there is no novelty to be found in between those moments and helps us to regain control over our attention.
“In conclusion, while our phones offer us a wealth of information at our fingertips, it’s important to be aware of the impact that this constant stream of novelty can have on our brains. By taking simple steps to manage our digital environments and being mindful of our screen time, we can avoid the pitfalls of the attention economy and maintain focus on what truly matters,” concludes Bruineberg.
-A Balanced Brain is a Better Brain for a Happier Life-