Ep. 374: This is Your Brain on Phones

In this episode of Deep Questions, Cal Newport discusses the neuroscience behind phone overuse, explaining how phones overwhelm the brain's short-term motivation system through clean reward signals, intermittent big rewards, and ubiquitous cues. He critiques common advice like adding friction, mindset changes, moderation, and detoxing, arguing they don't address the core neurological processes. Instead, he suggests eliminating strong reward signals by avoiding algorithmically curated content, reducing cue ubiquity by designating a home for the phone, and strengthening competing systems by pursuing long-term goals. Newport then answers listener questions about managing phone use, social media, and video game habits, and recommends strategies for parents and individuals to regain control over their attention and engagement with technology. Finally, he shares his monthly reading list, highlighting books that offer insights into living a deeper, more meaningful life.