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Discuss “How Things Work: Nootropics ”

Every few weeks at Carnegie Mellon University, hell rolls around. It comes in the form of three exams, two problem sets, a research paper, and a group presentation — all in the span of five horrible days. At times like these, we all feel like we could use a boost to our brainpower. If it were as easy as a pill, would you do it?

Pharmaceutical companies know the potential of “smart pills.” These pills are collectively known as nootropics, meaning “to act on the mind.” Nootropics have a mind-boggling potential: increased cognitive abilities, improved memory recall, slowed aging of the brain, and even reversal of mentally degenerative diseases.

Chemists have a long way to go before such promises can be realized. Currently, no nootropics...

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