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Wireheads and depression

I re-read the first two books of the Ringworld series a few months ago. Great science fiction–cool technology, interesting aliens, cardboard characters, decent plot. In the second one, The Ringworld Engineers, one of the main characters is addicted to electricity. Seriously–he has a device that directly stimulates the pleasure center of the brain. Niven calls this ‘addicted to the wire.’

Recently, however, I ran across this article: Shocking Treatment for Depression. Sure, sure, it will require a prescription, and it only helps “lift [your] mood.” It’s only for folks who are depressed. And Viagra is only for older men with erection problems.