No Science Update Tonight
Just a question. If you had just discovered a neurotransmitter – a chemical of fundamental importance to proper operation of the brain – don’t you think you could come up with a better name than “dopamine”?
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Then again, perhaps “dopamine” was a carefully considered choice? As Einstein said, “Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.”
Comment by Paul Luc — July 25, 2008 @ 8:59 am
You could be right, Paul. The protocols of naming things are mysterious and idiosyncratic. Another neurotransmitter, GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid), must be the one that induces people to talk incessantly. Incidentally, the Einstein quote you cite is one of my all-time favorites.
Comment by Al — July 25, 2008 @ 9:56 pm