Researchers have estimated the speed of information flow in the human brain to be approximately 10 bits per second (bps), significantly slower than the data transfer rates of modern technology, such as streaming high-definition videos at 25 megabits per second. This finding has sparked debate among experts about the limitations and potential biases of current measurement methods.
A key consideration in these studies is the distinction between conscious and unconscious signals. While the study measured the rate of final output, it appears to have excluded information from unconscious processes like standing, walking, or recovering from a trip, which could significantly increase the overall bit rate. The author notes that including such signals would “vastly” alter the estimated speed of brain processing.
The implications of this research are multifaceted and raise questions about our understanding of human cognition and the limitations of current measurement techniques. As experts continue to explore these topics, it is essential to consider the potential biases and omissions in existing studies to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex workings of the human mind.
Source: https://kottke.org/24/12/0045917-the-unbearable-slowness-o