In Feig’s study, mice genetically engineered to have memory problems were raised in an enriched environment–given toys, exercise, and social interaction–for two weeks during adolescence. The animals’ memory improved–an unsurprising finding, given that enrichment has been previously shown to boost brain function. The mice were then returned to normal conditions, where they grew up and had offspring. This next generation of mice also had better memory, despite having the genetic defect and never having been exposed to the enriched environment.

If the same applies to humans, the implication is that an enriched nurturing environment – or, conversely, childhood abuse – could have effects that reach beyond generations.

Maybe that’s why we never hear anything about “life after death” from the other side. When we die properly, it’s such a great experience that no one wants to ruin the surprise! :)

Talking about death always reminds me of 3 things: Jungs near death experience (he described it as the most blissful, serene and forgiving experience in his life), followed by his most fruitful period with some of the best writing he ever produced; Robert Anton Wilsons second to last sentence being along the lines of I look towards future with no dread or expectation; and a fairly recent theory linking birth and death experiences to a raised level of DMT in the brain.

The most brilliant thing is that no one really knows – the enlightened non-dualists claim they do, but who is to believe them.

Rob