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Nootropics; Study drugs make healthy people worse at problem-solving, not better

Resources from The Economist

Hard-working, but incompetent. Users try harder, but are less competent | Science & technology.

Officially, the stimulant drugs are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Unofficially, the drugs are also popular with devotees of “nootropics”, chemicals that supposedly boost brain power

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Summary:

This article is about the research into nootropics, which are compounds that enhance cognitive abilities. The article discusses how a recent study has shown that although users of nootropics may try harder and be more motivated in their tasks, they may not be as competent as those not using them. Specifically, the study indicates that while people on nootropics appear to work faster and more diligently than others, their decisions and results tend to be poorer than non-users. The main message behind this article is that while nootropics may make a person work harder and become more motivated, it does not necessarily equate to an increase in performance or decision making abilities.

Keywords: Nootropics, Cognitive Abilities, Performance, Decision Making

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