*[Enwl-eng] How images of war affect us

[enwl]

 

Images of conflict trigger a chemical stress response In recent weeks there has been no shortage of grim images on our many screens. And for decades, news broadcasts have brought images of war, epidemic and terror attacks to our homes. While it's important that such scenes are shared, can they lead to a desensitisation to tragedy? Some researchers fear so: seeing them causes our brains to release chemicals in our bodies, and this could have a deeper impact on our cognition in the long term. Other new research seeks to clarify the link between our age and health. You might have had a doctor tell you at some point during a routine check up that you're biologically ten years younger than your actual age. It's great to be told that you are sprightly, of course, but it's also quite meaningful. A group of researchers has concluded that your biological age turns out to be a more accurate indicator of your propensity towards certain health conditions than your numerical age.  Have you noticed that fewer bugs hit your windscreen when you drive along the motorway these days? This is not just  your perception – it is scientific evidence. We are approaching a mass extinction of tiny creatures that will have a major impact on the planet. Although many Europeans have traces of Neanderthal DNA in them, the only remaining hominid species on Earth nowadays is the Homo sapiens. But who were these early sapiens that bred with the Neanderthals and when did they arrive in Europe?  Thousands of years later, in the 19th century, Honoré de Balzac, attempted to create a new classification of human of his own: the spinster. With characters such as cousin Bette, the French writer developed an array of derogatory clichés for women who didn’t have a partner. However, despite Balzac’s best efforts, cousin Bette turned out to be pretty charismatic. And... I never expected to ask in 2023 if you have heard the latest Beatles song. But… have you? - Claudia Lorenzo, Culture Editor for The Conversation Spain   How constant violence affects your brain: the long term effects of “news information overload” Whenever violence erupts in the world, we are inundated with terrible images. Recently, we have seen the near-live broadcast of terror from the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. What impact does this have on our minds? Was this email forwarded to you? Join the hundreds of thousands of people who subscribe to email newsletters from The Conversation. Subscribe now. Recap Your biological age predicts dementia and stroke regardless of your actual age – new study Skulls in Ukraine reveal early modern humans came from the East  Fewer insects hitting your car windscreen? Here's why   For the curious How Balzac created the myth of the spinster Now and Then: enabled by AI – created by profound connections between the four Beatles   The Conversation Weekly Podcast A show for curious minds, bringing you stories from across The Conversation’s global network. Join host Gemma Ware each week as academic experts tell us about the fascinating discoveries they’re making to understand the world and the big questions they’re still trying to answer. New episodes every Thursday. Follow wherever you get your podcasts. Recommended newsletters for you Global, best of the network, twice a week. Curated by the executive editors. Give it a go Imagine, deep dives in possible climate actions. Give it a go         From: Claudia at The Conversation Sent: Thursday, November 09, 2023 3:07 PM Subject: How images of war affect us

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