#183 Dr. Ben Carson - Neuralink, God’s Hand in Neuroscience and Human Consciousness
On the Shawn Ryan Show, Dr. Ben Carson shares his inspiring life journey—from growing up in poverty to becoming a pioneering neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital. He reflects on his groundbreaking medical career, where he developed lifesaving techniques and risky procedures that pushed the boundaries of pediatric neurosurgery.
Dr. Carson also recounts his transition into politics, including his 2016 presidential run fueled by supporters drawn to his mission of upholding America's core values. He advocates for a renewed emphasis on principles like faith, liberty, and respect for human life, which he sees as integral to the nation's identity and future. Through his American Cornerstone Institute, Dr. Carson aims to educate citizens on these founding ideals as well as community-based solutions for societal challenges.
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Dr. Carson's Personal and Professional Background
Born into poverty in Detroit, Dr. Ben Carson overcame adversity through his mother's guidance and Christian faith. Despite initially struggling academically, he earned a medical degree from the University of Michigan. At 33, he became the youngest neurosurgery division director at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
His Medical Career and Pioneering Neurosurgery
Drawn to neurosurgery's innovative potential, Dr. Carson pioneered lifesaving techniques in pediatric neurosurgery, like separating conjoined twins. He developed risky yet effective procedures considered radical at the time, like hemispheric brain removals to treat seizures. Carson's overseas work in Australia boosted his experience, preparing him for leadership roles.
His Transition Into Politics and 2016 Presidential Run
After a well-received speech, grassroots supporters urged Carson to run for president in 2016. Though facing media skepticism, his campaign resonated with conservatives and the religious. Carson felt compelled to defend America's cultural fabric and founding principles.
His Perspective on America's Core Values
Dr. Carson sees America's moral foundation eroding, with institutions and traditional values under threat. He urges a return to cornerstones like faith, liberty, community, and respect for life. Carson views citizens as key to preserving the nation's identity amid ideological attacks.
His Initiatives via American Cornerstone Institute
To promote founding values, Carson founded the American Cornerstone Institute. It educates on government and core principles like faith and liberty. The institute also develops community-based solutions for homelessness and addiction. Carson emphasizes reviving national unity to overcome societal challenges.
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Clarifications
- Hemispherectomy is a surgical procedure where one hemisphere (half) of the brain is either partially or completely removed. This procedure is typically considered as a last resort for severe cases of epilepsy or seizures that do not respond to other treatments. By disconnecting or removing the affected hemisphere, the spread of abnormal electrical activity causing seizures can be controlled, offering relief to patients with debilitating seizure disorders. This radical surgery is carefully considered and performed by specialized neurosurgeons in select cases where the benefits outweigh the risks.
- Dr. Carson's 2016 presidential run was sparked by grassroots supporters who admired his background and values, believing he could bring a fresh perspective to the political landscape. This encouragement led him to enter the race, despite initial doubts from the media and political establishment. Carson's appeal to conservatives and religious voters further fueled his candidacy, positioning him as a contender in the Republican primary race.
- The American Cornerstone Institute, founded by Dr. Ben Carson, focuses on promoting America's founding values like faith and liberty. It aims to educate on core principles and develop community-based solutions for societal issues. The institute emphasizes reviving national unity to address challenges such as homelessness and addiction. Dr. Carson uses this platform to advocate for preserving traditional values and strengthening the nation's identity.
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Dr. Carson's Personal and Professional Background
Dr. Ben Carson's path from a challenging childhood to becoming a world-renowned neurosurgeon is marked by remarkable determination and success. His journey is one that intertwines significant professional achievements with a deeply personal narrative of overcoming adversity.
Raised In Poverty, Dr. Carson Overcame Adversity to Become a Renowned Neurosurgeon
Medical Degree From University of Michigan, Youngest Neurosurgery Division Director at Johns Hopkins
Raised in a single-parent home in Detroit, Michigan, Dr. Carson faced poverty and instability after his parents divorced when he was eight due to his father's secret second family. Despite this, he managed to turn his life around from his poor academic performance through his mother's insistence on reducing TV time and focusing on reading. This would set the stage for his academic achievements, leading him to graduate from Southwestern High School in inner-city Detroit and ultimately earn a medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School.
At age 33, Dr. Carson became the youngest major division director in the history of Johns Hopkins Hospital, where he was acclaimed for his ground-breaking work in pediatric neurosurgery. Notably, Dr. Carson led the first successful separation of conjoined twins, marking a significant milestone in surgical history.
Dr. Carson Gained Fame For Surgical Innovations, Including the First Successful Conjoined Twin Separation
Dr. Carson's professional accolades include not just his pioneering position at Johns Hopkins but also the critical surgeries he performed, like the 22-hour operation to separate conjoined twins. This innovation, among others, catapulted him to international fame and recognition.
Dr. Carson's Personal Life: Married To Candy For 50 Years, Father of Three Sons
Ben Carson married his wife Candy right after her graduation in 1975, a union that persists strongly fifty years later. Together, they have three sons. Both experienced differing early life challenges; while Carson faced extreme poverty, Candy, from a lower-middle-class family, dealt with the death of her alcoholic father during her high school years.
His Christian Faith and Mother Influence His Values and Success
Throughout his life, Dr. Carson's Christian faith has been a cornerstone of his identity and life decisions. His spiritual journey became particularly profound after episodes of rage during his adolescence prompted a heartfelt plea for divine assistance to control his temper. Reading the book of Proverbs for three hours in isolation helped him turn his life around, never having an angry outburst again after that day.
Carson's mother, who worked multiple domestic jobs to avoid w ...
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Dr. Carson's Personal and Professional Background
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Actionables
- You can create a "Challenge to Opportunity" journal where you document daily challenges and brainstorm ways to turn them into opportunities. This practice encourages a mindset shift similar to viewing adversity as an adventure, fostering resilience and creativity. For example, if you face a setback at work, write it down and list possible ways it could lead to new skills or career paths.
- Start a "Family Book Club" with your children or close relatives to encourage academic achievement and strong values, much like the influence of a supportive family member. Choose books that align with your family's values and discuss them regularly. This not only promotes literacy but also strengthens family bonds and instills shared values.
- Volunteer for mentorship programs in your com ...
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His Medical Career and Pioneering Neurosurgery
Dr. Ben Carson's career in neurosurgery is marked by perseverance, innovation, and groundbreaking work in pediatric neurosurgery, which have both saved lives and revolutionized the field.
Dr. Carson Was Drawn To Neurosurgery for Its Innovative Potential and Impact
Pioneering Procedures Saved Many Lives
Carson’s journey through the medical field was not without challenges. After attending medical school at the University of Michigan, he was advised to drop out due to poor performance on comprehensive exams. Instead of giving up, he retooled his study habits, focusing on reading to align with his strengths. Initially interested in psychiatry, Carson's exposure to what could be done with the brain and spinal cord led him to neurosurgery. Despite facing an underrepresentation of Black neurosurgeons and encountering discouragement, his fascination with the brain steered him towards a career where he would become a trailblazer.
Dr. Carson: Trailblazer in Pediatric Neurosurgery
Carson moved from adult neurosurgery to pediatrics where he was drawn to the potential in children and the prospects of performing more radical procedures due to the brain's rejuvenating plasticity. Tackling operations considered radical at the time, such as hemispherectomies where half the brain is removed to treat intractable seizures, his methods have become standard at children's hospitals. Notably, the first hemispherectomy he performed was on a young girl with severe seizures, which was a spectacular success.
Carson also worked on modifying intrauterine surgical techniques and faced ethical objections at John Hopkins, leading him to perform the surgery at a community hospital. This operation on a hydrocephalic baby was nationally recognized, despite initial critiques. His decision-making "best worse analysis" often guided him through challenging ethical terrains, underscoring his willingness to take calculated risks to save lives.
Dr. Carson's Australian and South African Experiences Enhanced His Leadership Skills
Australia Enabled Complex Surgery; South Africa Involved Separating Conjoined Twins
Dr. Carson’s time as a senior registrar at a major teaching hospital in Western Australia was instrumental in advancing his surgical repertoire. With a heavy workload and responsibility, he gained considerable experience performing multiple craniotomies every day, learning techniques not taught at Johns Hopkins.
Overseas Experiences Boos ...
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His Medical Career and Pioneering Neurosurgery
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Actionables
- You can enhance your problem-solving skills by practicing "best worse analysis" in everyday decisions. Start by identifying a decision you need to make, list the potential outcomes, and evaluate which option has the least negative consequences. For example, when choosing a new phone plan, consider the worst-case scenarios of each option, such as hidden fees or poor coverage, and choose the plan where the negatives are most manageable.
- Boost your adaptability by immersing yourself in a new environment or culture. Plan a trip to a place where you can volunteer or take part in a cultural exchange program. This will expose you to different ways of thinking and problem-solving, similar to how working abroad expanded Dr. Carson's skills. For instance, volunteering at a wildlife conservation project in a foreign country can teach you new communication skills and resilience.
- Develop your leadership skills by taking on a mentorship role in your community. Look for ...
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His Transition Into Politics and 2016 Presidential Run
Dr. Ben Carson's unexpected journey into politics was propelled by a wave of grassroots support and his commitment to the country's founding principles.
Resisting Calls to Run, Dr. Carson Entered the 2016 Race After a Well-Received Speech and Grassroots Support
Despite initially resisting calls to run for president, Dr. Carson entered the 2016 race after delivering a well-received speech at the Presidential Prayer Breakfast. He described how people persistently urged him to run, with over 500,000 signing petitions and carrying "Run Ben Run" placards. After much prayer and contemplation, Dr. Carson found himself equipped with important tools a presidential candidate needs, like an influential Rolodex and a well-organized campaign. His organization ultimately raised more funds than the Republican National Committee.
Amid Media and Political Criticism, Dr. Carson's Campaign Gained Conservative and Religious Voter Support
Dr. Carson's campaign gathered significant support from conservative and religious voters. An anecdote he shared from his 2016 presidential run depicted an incident at a debate where the announcer missed calling his name. Donald Trump showed solidarity by standing with Carson until the oversight was rectified, even taking a stand with the media, insisting they give Carson more opportunity to speak. This moment highlighted the camaraderie and respect between the two future political figures.
Carson's Duty to Country and Desire to Protect Founding Principles Drove His Presidential Run
Dr. Carson felt compelled to enter the political arena to expose threats to the nation's moral and cultural fabric. He believed tha ...
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His Transition Into Politics and 2016 Presidential Run
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Clarifications
- Dr. Ben Carson, a renowned neurosurgeon, transitioned into politics unexpectedly due to grassroots support and his commitment to fundamental American principles. His decision to enter the 2016 presidential race was influenced by a well-received speech and encouragement from supporters who believed in his leadership potential. Carson's journey into politics showcased his desire to protect the nation's values and address what he perceived as threats to its moral and cultural integrity.
- Dr. Carson and Donald Trump displayed camaraderie and respect during Dr. Carson's 2016 presidential campaign, as evidenced by an incident where Trump stood with Carson at a debate until an oversight was corrected. This moment highlighted a show of support and solidarity between the two candidates, despite being competitors in the race. Their interaction showcased a brief but notable display of mutual respect and camaraderie on the political stage.
- Dr. Carson believed that threats to the nation's moral and cultural fabric referred to challenges that could undermine the core values and beliefs that have traditionally guided American society. These threats could include issues like declining ethical standards, erosion of traditional family structures, and a weakening of societal norms that have historically shaped American culture. Dr. Carson aimed to address these challenges by advocating for a return to foundational principles and values that he believed were essential for the well-being and prosperity of the nation. By highlighting these threats, he sought to emphasize the importance of preserving and upholding the moral and cultural foundations that he viewed as integral to the fabric of American society.
- Dr. Carson speculated that the media may have been cautious in giving him too much attention because of his appeal to minority and disadvantaged groups, which could disrupt their base. This suggests that he believed his message might challenge the status quo and potentially sway audiences that the media outlets were traditionally aligned with. Carson's observation reflects his perception of how media coverage could be influenced by considerations of audience demographics and ...
Counterarguments
- Dr. Carson's grassroots support, while significant, may not have been as widespread as more established political figures, which could have impacted his overall influence in the race.
- The success of a well-received speech does not necessarily translate into effective political leadership or a successful presidential campaign.
- The number of people signing petitions does not always correlate with the number of actual voters or the breadth of support across the electorate.
- Raising more funds than the Republican National Committee could be seen as an impressive feat, but it does not guarantee electoral success or effective governance.
- Gaining support from conservative and religious voters is a narrow demographic and may not reflect a broader appeal needed to win a general election.
- The incident of solidarity with Donald Trump could be interpreted as a strategic move by Trump rather than a genuine gesture of camaraderie.
- The desire to protect the nation's moral and cultural fabric is subjective and may not align with the views of all Americans.
- The belief in sacrificial commitment and values may not resonate with voters who prioritize different issues, such as the economy or healthcare.
- The speculation about media ...
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His Perspective on America's Core Values
Dr. Ben Carson articulates a deep concern about the moral and cultural fabric of the United States, urging a return to what he views as America's cornerstone principles.
Dr. Carson Sees a Crisis of Moral and Cultural Erosion in the U.S., With Traditional Values and Institutions Threatened
Carson perceives recent trends in American society as evidence of a concerted effort to "fundamentally change" the nation. In his view, there is a crisis of moral and cultural erosion, with traditional values and institutions under threat.
Trends as Proof to 'Fundamentally Change' America
Carson believes that recent developments in American society are a significant departure from the past and are inconsistent with the desires of the majority of Americans. He points to the decline in traditional marriage and having children, and a drive towards alternative family structures as opposed to traditional nuclear families. He perceives negative societal changes such as denigrating marriage, procedures he views as mutilating children, and men participating in women's sports as part of an objective to fundamentally change America.
Dr. Carson Views Erosion As an Ideological Struggle Against America's Judeo-Christian Values
Drawing on the congressional record from January 10th, 1963, Carson claims it outlines communist goals—such as controlling schools for indoctrination, gaining control of media and Hollywood, and promoting sexual perversion as normal—which he feels are currently undermining American values. Carson posits that the United States is under ideological attack from belief systems, like socialism and communism, that are at odds with foundational American Judeo-Christian values.
Dr. Carson Urges a Return to America's "Cornerstone Principles": Faith, Liberty, Community, Respect For Life
Carson champions a return to what he considers America's cornerstone principles: faith, liberty, community, and respect for life. He emphasizes the role of citizens in preserving these principles to restore the moral and cultural identity of America.
Champion and Pass On Principles, Don't Take for Granted
Citing his own upbringing and experiences, such as how a verse from the book of Proverbs influenced his desire to apply to Yale University, Carson un ...
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His Perspective on America's Core Values
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Counterarguments
- The definition of "traditional values" can vary greatly among different cultures and individuals within the United States, and what Dr. Carson considers a threat might be seen by others as progress or a natural evolution of society.
- The concept of "traditional marriage and family structures" has historically changed and adapted, and alternative family structures can also provide loving and supportive environments for raising children.
- The assertion that there is a concerted effort to "fundamentally change" America may overlook the organic nature of cultural shifts that occur over time due to various social, economic, and technological factors.
- The idea that Judeo-Christian values are the sole foundation of American values may not acknowledge the contributions of other belief systems and the principles of secularism that have also shaped the nation.
- The notion that socialism and communism are actively undermining American values may not take into account the complexity of political ideologies and the diversity of thought that exists within the country.
- The emphasis on faith as a cornerstone principle may not resonate with all Ameri ...
Actionables
- You can foster a sense of community by starting a neighborhood book club focused on historical American values. Choose books that explore the nation's founding principles and facilitate discussions that connect these values to current events, encouraging participants to reflect on how these principles can be applied in modern society.
- Encourage respect for life by volunteering at a local charity that aligns with your values, such as a food bank or a shelter. Through your actions, you demonstrate the importance of community and helping others, which can inspire those around you to consider how they too can contribute to the well-being of their community.
- Create a family values statement with ...
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His Initiatives via American Cornerstone Institute
Dr. Ben Carson is utilizing the American Cornerstone Institute to affect change and address some of America's most pressing issues, with a focus on the nation's founding values and tackling complex problems like homelessness and addiction.
Dr. Carson Founded the American Cornerstone Institute to Promote Essential Principles For America's Well-Being
Educating On Founding Values and Empowering Political Engagement
Dr. Carson, motivated by the direction he saw the United States taking under the Biden administration, founded the American Cornerstone Institute to reaffirm and promote principles he believes are fundamental to the country's greatness. He emphasizes the cornerstones of faith, liberty, community, and life, aiming to instill these values in the public conscience and encouraging a new generation to embrace them.
Ben Carson's initiative goes beyond mere rhetoric. The "Executive Branch for America," an online course developed by the American Cornerstone Institute, educates government officials and the public on the workings of the government, including legislative processes and financial management. The course, free of charge, aims to empower a new wave of knowledgeable conservatives to enter and effectively navigate the federal government system.
Dr. Carson Inspires a New Generation to Defend the Nation's Core Identity
Dr. Carson advocates for a return to America’s foundational values through lectures and educational programs, inspiring a new generation to defend and uphold the core identity of the nation. His vision involves not only political education but also a call to unity, urging Americans to see past their differences and work together to strengthen the nation.
Dr. Carson's Work With the American Cornerstone Institute Addresses Homelessness and Addiction
Innovative, Collaborative Approaches Leverage Government and Community Solutions for Complex Problems
The American Cornerstone Institute, under Carson's guidance, pursues innovative solutions to issues such as homelessness and addiction. Dr. Carson elaborates on a Los Angeles program shaped by multi-level government collaboration, designed to utilize government land and budget surpluses to provide necessary ancillary services for the mentally ill and drug addicts. This comprehensive approach aims not just to offer housing, but ...
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His Initiatives via American Cornerstone Institute
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Counterarguments
- While Dr. Carson's focus on foundational values is commendable, some may argue that the interpretation of these values can be subjective and that a diverse society may have differing views on what these principles mean in a modern context.
- Political engagement is crucial, but there may be concerns about whether the educational materials provided by the American Cornerstone Institute are balanced and represent a wide range of political perspectives.
- Inspiring a new generation to defend the nation's core identity is important, but it is also essential to ensure that this does not lead to resistance to necessary change and evolution within society.
- Addressing homelessness and addiction is critical, but some may question whether the approaches advocated by the American Cornerstone Institute are comprehensive enough or if they consider all the systemic factors contributing to these issues.
- Collaborative approaches are key to solving comple ...
Actionables
- You can deepen your understanding of America's founding values by starting a book club focused on historical documents and biographies of the Founding Fathers. This encourages learning and discussion about the principles that shaped the nation. For example, you might read "The Federalist Papers" or biographies of figures like George Washington and discuss how their ideas can be applied today.
- Volunteer with local organizations that address homelessness and addiction to gain firsthand experience with these issues. By working directly with affected individuals, you can better understand the complexities of these problems and contribute to community-driven solutions. For instance, join a local shelter's outreach program or support groups that help individuals with addiction recovery.
- Create a personal initiative to foster unity in your community by ...
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