NPR

Why Your Brain Has Trouble Bailing Out Of A Bad Plan

Researchers say it takes a lot of brainpower to stop an action, once it's underway. A study found that when people have to change a planned movement, 11 different brain areas have to get involved.
I guess it's too late to change my mind.

You're in your car, heading for an intersection. The light turns yellow, so you decide to hit the gas. Then you see a police car.

Almost instantly, you know that stomping on the accelerator is a big mistake. But there's a good chance you'll do it anyway, says , a professor in the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences at

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR2 min readCrime & Violence
Guatemalan AG Raids Save The Children Office Over A Migrant Children Rights Complaint
Prosecutor Rafael Curruchiche said that the complaint filed by an unidentified foreigner had raised serious concerns because it involved allegations of abuse of children.
NPR2 min read
New Staffing Updates To The Short Wave Team
Congratulations to Berly McCoy and Rachel Carlson for becomming permanent producers and Regina G. Barber for becomming full time co-host!
NPR2 min read
Chicago's 'Rat Hole' Is Removed After The City Determined The Sidewalk Was Damaged
The imprint of an animal had been a quirk of a residential block in Chicago's North Side for years but a post on social media brought it new fame, which neighbors found to be a nuisance.

Related Books & Audiobooks