Wow, I knew that Toxoplasma did things like that, but not to that degree! There are quite a few parasites that can alter human functioning/behavior, and thankfully, ways of expelling them from our bodies so that we don't experience their destructive effects...
...I've been wanting to write an article that touches upon similar subjects, but it will probably be awhile until I get to it as I have a lot on my plate right now. In the meantime, I would like to share the following...
...Generally, human bodies are communities (sometimes referred to as the "human microbiome"). Some scientists throughout history have put forth the idea that the state of this inner environment can determine our overall health (and whether or not things like parasites can take root in the first place)...
...This is sometimes referred to as "Terrain Theory". Some take it to extremes and see it at odds with "Germ Theory" (i.e.: the idea that harmful microorganisms, or "germs", are the cause of disease)...
...In my opinion, both models are accurate and useful in ways that complement one another. Further, I believe we are living beings embedded within a living environment, and similar models would probably be very useful in both psychology and sociology...
...For example, I have a feeling that some people who have "endogenic systems" (i.e.: multiple personalities that came about without trauma) are probably consciously experiencing these different aspects of their body as distinct entities separate enough to warrant their own labels...
...I haven't found much literature which explores these types of concepts though. One of the only books that I can name, which I haven't read yet, is Jonathan Edwards' "How Many People Are There In My Head? And In Hers?: An Exploration of Single Cell Consciousness"...
...Anyway, sorry to go on and on. Thank you so much for sharing. Interesting stuff!
Thank you for sharing! All of these terms were new to me and I enjoyed looking into them. I would agree that the germ/terrain theories complement each other. I was a bit suprised to see that "terrain theory" appears to be controversial. I hope you get the opportunity to share more of this with others!
Hard to judge, it is really your choice if you want to keep putting time into the relationship. Is there any hope it will end where you want it to? If yet, maybe try to fix it. If not, maybe it would be painful but better to move on.
yes* not yet
Thank you for reading! I wish I was leaning one way or the other but I'm as undecided as ever. It's not knowing that prevents me from committing myself fully. I've been thinking about doing that speed dating thing just to get it out of my system. God I feel like such a wench XD