Immigration, infection, and pets are all involved in the behavior and culture that shapes society. This is Your Brain on Parasites is a fascinating and frightening read. The author provides a clear narrative on what we have perceived to be predator/prey food cycles but are the life cycles of many parasites. The author provides examples through a ribbon like fluke that reproduces through egrets and killifish or a flatworm Leucochloridium that reproduces through snails and songbirds. In either case, the parasite alters the behavior and/or appearance to make it susceptible to consumption by the predator. The author also accounts for Toxoplasma gondii found in the excrement of household cats. This parasite alters the behavior of mice causing recklessness and reduced fear among cats. The parasite then reproduces in the feline small intestine and the cycle continues. More shocking is that this parasite is termed a “dormant infection” within humans who are not immunocompromised. The Center for Disease Control report an estimated 11 percent of the United States (6 years and older) have been infected with this parasite and other parts of the world up to 95 percent. The author also includes some studies that are beginning to find correlation between car accidents and T. gondii cysts within the brain. However, much more research needs to be conducted to conclude causation. Dog owners shouldn’t feel immune, there is also a canine version of the parasite called Toxocara!
By now you’re probably wondering, what should we do? The author also describes how our innate fears of infection and disease develop our prejudices and shape society. How politicians use certain issues such as immigration and fear of disease to garner support. The book describes psychological studies on the perception of people, topics, and issues with or without a hygienic warning for example to wash your hands. The data shows that people tend to be more relaxed about certain issues when no hygienic warning is prompted beforehand. Interestingly our immune system also kicks into gear by increasing the activity of T cells when a sensory trigger of possible infection or contamination is experienced. Our body’s immune system has adapted to be ahead of the game when dealing with infection. Ideally, misconceptions and panic should be dispelled through educating the public on diseases and transmission.
Overall, this book is enjoyable and immediately the reader becomes fascinated by the world of parasitology. This field was once down casted as a primitive topic, being that parasites were rudimentary organisms of uninteresting capabilities. The field sits between a pathological and behavioral framework regarding a parasite’s ability to influence our actions. The author notes that her introduction into this field was from Parasite Rex by Carl Zimmer. Interestingly, much of the beginning of the book reiterates many discussions on parasites found in Zimmer’s book. However, the author utilizes a different cadre of experts and experiences later in the book. Lastly, the author provides thought provoking correlations between politics, prejudices, and our behavior shaped by disease.