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Monday 26 September 2022

No botox for Winston



Botox could reduce anxiety and depression

Botox injections that stop people frowning could help reduce negative emotions such as fear and anger as well as treat depression and anxiety, according to a new scientific study.

Researchers found that botox injected into the forehead area relaxed facial muscles and prevented a "negative feedback loop" between the face and brain.

Maybe it's the way I make connections, but on reading this I was immediately reminded of Winston Smith having to make sure his facial expression did not lead to "negative feedback loops." Rather more serious feedback loops in his case, but maybe the comparison is not wholly unwarranted.  

Winston turned round abruptly. He had set his features into the expression of quiet optimism which it was advisable to wear when facing the telescreen.

George Orwell - 1984 (1949)

4 comments:

Sam Vega said...

Smith's feedback loop was between the face and Big Brother, rather than between the face and the brain. But the state has already interposed itself into the process with regard to obesity, so expect it to get involved in mental health interventions once they have perfected the software.

"Records from our streetcam network show that you have been showing physical signs of depression lately. An appointment has been made for you to attend the Health Centre on the following date. Please don't try to contact the Health Centre directly - you know this hasn't been an option since 2020."

Bucko said...

Botox seems a bit extreme when there's booze

A K Haart said...

Sam - "Records from our streetcam network show..." And it's easy to imagine how this could be introduced in the not so distant future. Voluntary to begin with, such as booths in shops and supermarkets. Or an app on your smartphone which scans your face every time you use it.

Bucko - maybe they spend so much time on their smartphones they don't have time for booze. A quick botox jab between TikTok sessions is all they have time for.

Bucko said...

Fair point