Page 262 - Flipping book The Adam Paradox Hypothesis - Second Edition.pdf

The Ādam Paradox Hypothesis 239
Neuroscience
1. Build computational models simulating recursive syntax and symbolic
reasoning with small regulatory changes.
Explanation:
“Recursive syntax
” is the ability to embed ideas inside other
ideas — the hallmark of human language (e.g.,
“the man who saw the boy
who carried the book”).
The idea is to create computer models of brain networks and test: Could a
single regulatory DNA change unlock this ability?
If yes, it shows how a small mutation could lead to a huge leap in cognition.
2. Begin organoid studies with FOXP2 and HAR1 variants, testing effects
on oscillations and connectivity.
Explanation: Brain “organoids” are tiny lab-grown clusters of neurons made
from stem cells. They can’t think like humans, but they mimic some
patterns of brain activity.
By tweaking FOXP2 or HAR1 in these organoids, scientists can observe
whether neural oscillations(rhythms) and connectivity (how well neurons
communicate) change in ways that might support language or symbolic
thought.
This provides a living lab for testing the biological plausibility of APH.
Tools
1. Neural network simulations
Computer models that mimic how neurons connect and process
information.
By adjusting parameters (like adding a regulatory change to FOXP2 or
HAR1), researchers can simulate whether these tweaks allow for recursive
syntax (nesting thoughts inside thoughts) and symbolic reasoning.
Helps test: Could minor DNA changes plausibly cause a leap in cognition?