r/badneuroscience

42 archived posts · Jun 2015 – Jun 2025

For posts written using 10% of the brain

r/badneuroscience

The repository for all the worst neuroscience-related content of Reddit and the Internet.

Created Jun 9, 2015

504Members (last snapshot)

42Archived posts

Tired of seeing these common misconceptions:

What about grossly inaccurate oversimplifications of biochemical, pharmacological, or physiological processes involving the nervous system?

Or even wild neurological claims with zero supporting evidence?

Post them here!

General Guidelines

Don't be a douche/jerk/buttface. This means no unnecessary hostility, with special sensitivity in regards to hate speech directed toward someone because of their race/gender/orientation/etc!
Supply sources when making claims, especially when refuting another's claims. If no sources are provided, users are encouraged to seek out their own or to ask for the OP to post a source.
np links are REQUIRED when linking to reddit. However, screenshots are preferable, as they allow the poster to block out identifying info and prevent brigading.
Links outside of reddit are allowed as long as they fit the theme of this sub.
Submissions may be links or self posts.
Mods reserve the right to refuse service to anyone, so don't be a dick. To question a ban/removal of comment, message the mods and we will discuss.

Identifying Bad Neuroscience

Here are some key words/phrases/ideas to look out for when trying to decide if someone's claims are to be ridiculed!

Claims involving the premise that neurology cannot change over the course of one's life
"Having a bigger X structure means you're better at Y"
Citing a study from more than 5 years ago is always suspect, but not necessarily outright BAD. Try to use more contemporary sources. Neuroscience changes FAST.
"Male brains evolved to do X function while women's evolved to do Y function, therefore we should stick to these roles in modern society"
"I can't help it, it's just how I'm wired"
"X isn't addicting because you don't have physical withdrawal symptoms"

And many, many more!

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