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The Shrinking Black Box of Human Biology

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Biological Measures of Human Experience across the Lifespan

Abstract

From the dissection of corpses in the third century BCE, to the discovery of X-rays, the development of clinical assays, the Human Genome Project, and a proposed Brain Activity Map, the black box of human morphology, function, and genetics has given way to increased visibility and understanding. This final chapter reviews the relationship between methodological innovation in physical and functional assessment and our human experience. Further examples are given for how subjective perception corresponds (or not) with objective measurement. Then, dilemmas associated with making ourselves visible are explored. The point is made that clinical decisions are affected by increased knowledge. Knowledge alters the experience of living in the body. We have engaged in a long, and continuing, search to discover the secrets inside the black box of our genes, bodies, and minds.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA

    Lynnette Leidy Sievert

  2. UH Hilo, Hilo, HI, USA

    Daniel E. Brown

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  1. Lynnette Leidy Sievert
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Correspondence to Lynnette Leidy Sievert .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA

    Lynnette Leidy Sievert

  2. University of Hawaii, Hilo, Hawaii, USA

    Daniel E. Brown

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Sievert, L.L., Brown, D.E. (2016). The Shrinking Black Box of Human Biology. In: Sievert, L., Brown, D. (eds) Biological Measures of Human Experience across the Lifespan. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-44103-0_15

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-44103-0_15

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