Neurological Quote by Norman Doidge
““He has repeatedly shown that by explaining neurological “oddities,” he can shed light on the functioning of normal brains. “I hate crowds in science,” he tells me. He doesn’t fancy large scientific meetings either. “I tell my students, when you go to these meetings, see what direction everyone is headed, so you can go in the opposite direction. Don’t polish the brass on the bandwagon.” Beginning””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, “The Brain’s Hidden Powers”, 2015
He argues that studying unusual brain cases reveals how typical brains work, and advises avoiding conformity in scientific gatherings.
In simple terms: Studying odd brain cases teaches normal brain function; avoid groupthink in science.
Key Takeaway
Seek unique perspectives; question prevailing trends.
Themes
science
individuality
critical thinking
neuroscience
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic conferences
- research labs
- student mentorship
- career decisions
Key Concepts
Neurodiversity
innovation
independent thought
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you identify valuable outlier research?
- What strategies help resist bandwagon pressure?
A Different Perspective
Unconventional ideas may be harder to fund or publish.
![“ME, a neurological disease[20,21], has been described in the medical literature since 1934 under various names[22], e.g., epidemic neuromyasthenia and atypical poliomyelitis, often on account of outbreaks[23-25]. Characteristic symptoms of ME, classified as a disease of the nervous system by the…” quote by Frank Twisk](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/593/frank-twisk-66444_books_me-a-neurological-disease-20-21-has-been_358570.jpg)
