The evolutionary psychology of healing: a human success story
updated
Humphrey N, Skoyles J. The evolutionary psychology of healing: a human success story. Curr Biol. 2012 Sep;22(17):R695–8. PubMed #22975000.
Tags: mind
PainSci summary of Humphrey 2012?This page is one of thousands in the PainScience.com bibliography. It is not a general article: it is focused on a single scientific paper, and it may provide only just enough context for the summary to make sense. Links to other papers and more general information are provided at the bottom of the page, as often as possible. ★★★☆☆?3-star ratings are for typical studies with no more (or less) than the usual common problems. Ratings are a highly subjective opinion, and subject to revision at any time. If you think this paper has been incorrectly rated, please let me know.
Humphrey and Skoyles proposes an evolutionary explanation for the placebo paradox: even though it might be possible in theory, in practice our brains dare not routinely invoke powerful recovery mechanisms because they have costs that often outweigh the benefits. Here’s some excellent extra reading from Todd Hargrove, who did a nice job interpreting and explaining this idea. The additional perspective is most welcome.
related content
Why does the placebo effect work? on YouTube.com.
Specifically regarding Humphrey 2012:
