Common WiFi has diminished humanity, as scientists reveal a significant limitation of our brain.

A recent study by scientists revealed the relatively slow pace at which the human brain processes information, prompting them to reassess its cognitive efficiency in comparison to modern technologies. They found that while an average Wi-Fi connection can transmit over 260 million bits per second, and a phone call uses about 64,000 bits per second, the human brain processes information at a mere ten bits per second, according to their calculations, as reported by Smithsonian.

Neurobiologist from the California Institute of Technology and co-author of the study published in Neuron, Marcus Meister, pointed out this discrepancy. "If we try to quantify this, it turns out that we are incredibly slow," he stated. By analyzing human activities such as typing or playing video games and applying information theory, he and his team concluded that even highly skilled individuals operate within the range of ten bits per second.

For instance, experienced typists average 120 words per minute, and elite gamers exhibit quick reflexes, yet neither group exceeds this cognitive ceiling. To explore the role of physical limitations in cognitive information processing, the researchers examined blindfolded speedcubing—a less labor-intensive task requiring participants to solve a Rubik's Cube with their eyes covered.

Despite minimal physical involvement, information processing peaked at just under 12 bits per second, indicating inherent limitations in the speed of cognitive activity in humans. This bottleneck sharply contrasts with the immense flow of sensory data—estimated to be billions of bits per second—that humans continuously receive but only selectively process.

The evolutionary origins of these limitations offer potential explanations. Early humans required only basic cognitive abilities for survival, such as tracking environmental signals, which is far removed from today's digital demands. Furthermore, the study critiques attempts to enhance human cognition through neuro-computer interfaces. It highlights the brain's inability to effectively manage simultaneous tasks and emphasizes that people merely switch between tasks rather than engage in true multitasking.

This limitation raises questions about the practicality of accelerating human-computer interaction beyond the natural threshold of data processing by the brain. However, the authors argue that a slowdown in cognitive processing may have its advantages, particularly for learning and memory retention. For example, handwriting necessitates a deliberate pace and physical engagement, which fosters better understanding and recall of the content compared to the familiar act of typing.