Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Popping Smart Pills: The Case for Cognitive Enhancement

When someone has ADHD, the doctors usually prescribe them pills to help them concentrate better. Some of the pills the doctor could prescribe are Adderall, Ritalin and modafinil (Provigil). All of these drugs are considered performance enhancing drugs. A lot of college students take these drugs to help them concentrate to study and do homework, even if they dont have ADHD. They get these pills from people that have the disease. One the plus side though, taking these pills can enhance your memory and make it easier to recall it later or even having better cognition. In a study done, people remembered and learned more if they took one of these drugs while studying compared to remembering less if you didnt take the drug. A lot of people consider taking these drugs unfair though. Many people call it cheating becuase you needed help to rememberand learn these things. Also, it has been said to be unfair becuase only wealthy people have the money to get and use these drugs. Although the risk is pretty high from taking these pills, many people think it could be worth it if you become "smarter".

http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1869435,00.html

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