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How Real Is Severance? The Show’s Neurosurgery Consultant Breaks Down Its Science

A neurosurgeon who has acted as a consultant for Severance explains the science behind the show’s brain-altering procedure—and whether it could ever become reality.

How Real Is Severance? The Show’s Neurosurgery Consultant Breaks Down Its Science
How Real Is Severance? The Show’s Neurosurgery Consultant Breaks Down Its Science

Image Source : https://www.scientificamerican.com/podcast/episode/how-real-is-severance-the-sh… , Used Under : CC BY 4.0

This transcript is from an interview between Rachel Feltman and neurosurgeon Vijay Agarwal regarding the science behind the Apple TV+ show Severance. In the show, employees undergo a procedure that implants a microchip in their brains to completely separate their work and personal lives. Agarwal was consulted to ensure the scientific accuracy of the show. Agarwal discussed how the concept of the severance procedure was developed and how it relates to real-life neuroscience. He explained that the show incorporated realistic elements such as the placement of the chip in the brain's amygdala and hippocampus to manipulate memories and emotions. The interview also touched on topics like reintegration, transmagnetic stimulation, and the risks associated with basement neurosurgery portrayed in the show. Agarwal highlighted the potential advancements in neuroscience that could allow for the manipulation of brain function through electrical stimulation. Overall, Agarwal emphasized the believability and scientific accuracy of Severance, attributing the show's success to its attention to detail and incorporation of real scientific concepts. The interview concluded with a discussion about fan theories and the widespread fascination with the show's unique concept and storytelling.

Author Name: Alex Sugiura,Fonda Mwangi,Naeem Amarsy,Rachel Felt