For the first time, scientists have recorded how our brains navigate physical space and keep track of others’ location. Researchers used a special backpack to wirelessly monitor the brain waves of epilepsy patients as each one walked around an empty room hunting for a hidden, two-foot spot.

“Our research demonstrates that focusing narrowly on one task may cause radiologists to miss unexpected abnormalities, even if those abnormalities are critical for patient outcomes,” stated study author Lauren Williams.

“In general, people like to think that the system they live in is fair,” reflects Jackie Chen, a social psychology professor. System justification — the human tendency to accept or defend the status quo, even if it’s damaging — is at work.

David Strayer says that our increased screen time has led to more multi-tasking, and the combination puts a strain on our brains. "One of the best solutions we've found is to set that aside and go out and walk for a bit. You don't then use those prefrontal regions of the brain to try and multitask," he says.