Information and Evidence

Information and Evidence

                Information within the field of Neuroscience often takes the form of empirically confirmed facts. For example, the publications by Brown and Riad-Allen and van der Kooy include the results of research, which are proven and then stated declaratively as fact. Brown writes “Overexpression of XBP1 using gene therapy in models of Parkinson’s disease (Sadoetal. 2009), spinal cord injury (Valenzuela et al. 2012), and Huntington’s disease (Zuleta et al. 2012) protected against disease features” (2012, p.1). Similarly, Riad-Allen and van der Kooy write, “midazolam preference is mediated by negative reinforcement” (2013, 5).  These publications represent the general use of facts which have been empirically investigated and proven. These facts serve as evidence for the hypothesis or argument stated by the author(s).

The acquisition of such facts is made possible through the use of technology. One example is the investigation of schizophrenia. “Research into schizophrenia is in the midst of a period of unparalleled advance, driven in large part by improvements in neuroimaging technology” (McCarley, 1996, p. 1). Therefore, acquisition of information in the field of Neuroscience often requires the use of specialized technology since most investigations make predictions about micro-molecules or systems of cells whose function is not visible by the naked eye.

Information is synthesized as knowledge when one can explain said information to a neutral party without previous exposure to field. The sites Medhelp.org/neurology and Healthcommunities.com exemplify this concept. Doctors are able to communicate with citizens who have neurological questions via interactive forums.

Information (which was originally the result of research) is synthesized and conveyed in easy to understand language so that anyone can find answers. However, such information is not as detailed as the research findings circulated within specialized discourse communities.

For further insight into the role of fMRI in Neuroscience: [from the National Science Foundation]