The Mind, Explained (TV series, 2019)

​"The Mind, Explained" is a documentary miniseries that delves into the mysteries of the human brain. It's a part of the larger "Explained" series, divided into different thematic sections. This particular part focuses on unraveling the complexities of the human mind through five episodes: Memory, Dreams, Anxiety, Attention, and Psychedelics.

Each episode offers scientific insights into various aspects of our brain's functionality. For example, in the Memory episode, viewers learn about how memory works, why we forget around 50% of the information about events within a year, and how our brains fill in details in memories without us realizing. It also explores techniques for memorization, such as the Method of Loci.

The series highlights pivotal moments in history that have shaped our understanding of the mind. It draws parallels between significant events like the invention of nuclear weapons and the discovery of LSD in the 1940s, both of which had profound impacts on society. While nuclear weapons altered the external world, LSD altered the internal world of consciousness. Despite their transformative potential, both faced severe backlash and prohibition.

Fast forward to the 21st century, where the rise of mental health issues has become a pressing concern. Despite medical advancements in areas like organ transplants and prosthetics, mental health treatment remains inadequate. The series sheds light on the growing epidemic of mental illnesses, from panic attacks to uncontrollable rage, and the limitations of modern medicine in addressing them.

However, amidst these challenges, there's a glimmer of hope. The emergence of technologies like computers and the internet in the early 2000s marks a turning point in human consciousness. The series suggests that we're on the cusp of a new era of consciousness exploration, with psychedelics playing a pivotal role.

Narrated by Emma Stone, the series combines interactive infographics, expert interviews, and engaging storytelling to captivate viewers. Each episode offers a fascinating journey into the inner workings of the mind, with standout episodes focusing on psychedelics.

For those intrigued by the topic, additional resources like interviews with Michael Pollan and Tim Ferriss provide further insights into the transformative potential of psychedelics. Overall, "The Mind, Explained" is a compelling documentary series that offers both educational and thought-provoking content for viewers interested in exploring the depths of human consciousness.