Is the technology featured in Severance set to become a reality?
What would it be like if work never intruded on your personal life? Imagine truly being able to switch off at the end of the day, free from the stress of emails and the never-ending to-do list. That’s the intriguing premise of Apple TV+’s Severance.
In this series created by Dan Erickson and directed by Ben Stiller, the main character, Mark S (played by Adam Scott), undergoes a procedure called ‘severance’ that splits his memory and identity into two parts: the personal ‘outie’ and the professional ‘innie’. They switch places in Lumon’s elevator lift, inspired by the psychological phenomenon known as ‘the doorway effect’. This intriguing concept has struck a chord with audiences, especially in a post-pandemic world where many are reevaluating their relationship with work.
Dr. Vijay Agarwal, a neurosurgeon who consulted on the show, reveals that the technology showcased in Severance may not be too far off from reality. While we’re not quite at the level seen in the series, recent advancements in brain science, such as Elon Musk’s Neuralink chip, are paving the way for potentially groundbreaking developments in modifying brain function. Scientists have successfully implanted electrodes in the brain to stimulate and modify brain function, showing promise in treating various conditions from substance abuse to mental health disorders.
The show is reminiscent of experiments on ‘split-brain’ patients conducted since the 1940s, where the right and left hemispheres of the brain were separated. These patients exhibited unique cognitive processes in each hemisphere, showcasing the complexities of our brain’s abilities. However, while the idea of severing work from personal life may seem appealing, psychologists like Dr. Jade Thomas caution that true balance comes from integrating both aspects rather than completely separating them.
Severance challenges the notion that disconnecting from work entirely is the key to happiness. The show implies that such detachment could have severe consequences, as seen on the severed floor where employees are pressured into sinister tasks. Research also suggests that jobs perceived as ‘pointless’ can lead to higher rates of depression and anxiety. Instead of aiming to forget about work, the focus should be on finding fulfilling and purposeful work that enhances, rather than overwhelms, our lives. Ultimately, as much as the idea of severance may intrigue us, striking a healthy balance between work and personal life remains the key to true contentment.
