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"I have not found among my possessions anything which I hold more dear than, or value so much as, my knowledge of the actions of great people, acquired by long experience in contemporary affairs, and a continual study of antiquity." – Machiavelli, The Prince
Overview
Multi-disciplinary researchers have established the concept of "brain capital," incorporating both brain health and brain skills, and comprised of learned knowledge, innovative ability and cognitive performance. Written in the wake of COVID-19, this research-based article describes how brain capital has become integral to our intricate, dynamic and delicate global economy, and why public policy that nurtures brain capital can help create a better world. According to this team of experts, building brain capital is key to building a resilient economy. The BrainHealth Project has emerged as one powerful tool to boost brain capital. Defining brain health as a holistic health measure, the project is the largest scientific study to redefine brain health. Participants receive a toolkit of strategies for optimizing potential brain performance, a key element in realizing a "Brain Capital Grand Strategy."“”
"The BrainHealth Index will be a central component of the Brain Capital strategy. This measurement of brain health will allow for us to track, benchmark and implement the Brain Capital Grand Strategy in policy. This Index can also be used by executives, human resource managers and board members." – Harris Eyre, MD, PhD, neuroscientist and senior author of this paper
Under our novel formulation, the concept of Brain Capital would encompass the knowledge, creative skills, and optimized brain health that people accumulate and can strengthen throughout their lives that enables them to realize their potential as productive members of society. Brain Capital should be supported at all levels of policymaking to ensure impact on human functionality and productivity.
