The Science of Sleep: Understanding What Happens When We Drift Off

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nature of sleep and perception, highlighting that individuals can perceive sensory information while asleep, though this is not processed consciously. Participants confirm that the brain continues to receive stimuli, such as sounds or sensations, but often ignores them unless they are significant enough to induce waking. The conversation also touches on the perception of time during sleep, with many asserting that they have an unconscious awareness of time passing. The distinction between perception and sensation is emphasized, particularly in relation to organisms without complex nervous systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic neuroscience concepts, particularly regarding sleep and consciousness.
  • Familiarity with the differences between perception and sensation.
  • Knowledge of the functions of the central nervous system.
  • Awareness of sleep stages and their physiological implications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the stages of sleep and their impact on sensory perception.
  • Explore the neuroscience of consciousness and unconsciousness.
  • Investigate the role of the central nervous system in processing sensory information.
  • Learn about the differences between perception in humans and simpler organisms.
USEFUL FOR

Psychologists, neuroscientists, sleep researchers, and anyone interested in the complexities of sleep and sensory perception.

  • #31
But I always thought that moths do perceive light, but don't think about it?
Like there's some sort of feeling, but they don't think about it?
For example when you hear a conversation but don't process what they're talking about, you hear everything (so you perceive it) but don't think/process it.
 
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  • #32
candydude357 said:
But I always thought that moths do perceive light, but don't think about it?
Like there's some sort of feeling, but they don't think about it?
For example when you hear a conversation but don't process what they're talking about, you hear everything (so you perceive it) but don't think/process it.

Again, that depends on your definition of 'perceive'. They have photosensors, yes. Is that perception?

This is a semantic discussion, since we're just discussing our ideas of words, not the actual facts of what's going on.


Going back to feeling and pain for a moment:

... a scalpel... cuts into the head and exposes the insect’s brain.

“There’s no anesthesia. Isn’t it unbearably painful?”

“Not at all ... Insects have no pain receptors, nor do they have the cognitive traits needed to experience pain the way we do. The experience of pain is created in the brain. Insects don’t have a system that can convey information about pain,”...
http://Earth'sky.org/biodiversity/inside-a-moths-brain
 
Last edited:
  • #33
Wait, insects don't have pain receptors? I never knew that...
 
  • #34
Shalis said:
I can not complete my sleep and often take sleeping pills for the sound sleep.
Is it a healthy way for he sound sleep?, Please give me some healthy suggestions

Take it up with your doctor.
 
  • #35
Seconded.

Needing to take sleeping pills regularly is a sure alert to get to your doctor.
 

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