The Psychologic Consequences of Exposure to High Density Pulsed Electromagnetic Energy
F. G. Hirsch, D. R. McGiboney, T. D. Harnish · 1968
This 1968 research explored whether pulsed electromagnetic energy could affect rat psychology and maze behavior, pioneering EMF neurological studies.
Plain English Summary
This 1968 study by F.G. Hirsch examined how high-density pulsed electromagnetic energy affected psychological behavior in laboratory rats, specifically focusing on maze performance. The research represents early scientific investigation into whether electromagnetic fields could influence brain function and behavior patterns. This work helped establish the foundation for understanding potential neurological effects of EMF exposure decades before widespread wireless technology adoption.
Why This Matters
This research from 1968 represents pioneering work in understanding how electromagnetic fields might affect brain function and behavior. What makes this study particularly significant is its timing - it was conducted decades before cell phones, WiFi, and other wireless technologies became ubiquitous, yet researchers were already investigating psychological effects of pulsed electromagnetic energy. The focus on maze behavior in rats suggests scientists were exploring whether EMF exposure could impair cognitive function, memory, or decision-making processes.
The reality is that pulsed electromagnetic signals are now everywhere in our environment, from cell phone towers to WiFi routers to smart devices. While we don't have the specific findings from this early study, the fact that researchers in 1968 found it worthwhile to investigate psychological consequences of EMF exposure should give us pause about our current levels of exposure. Today's wireless signals are far more complex and prevalent than anything these early researchers could have imagined.
Figures from the Original Paper
Diagram extracted from the original research document.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study. Duration: 3 nanoseconds per pulse with 10 minute intervals between exposures
Study Details
To investigate the psychological consequences of exposure to high density pulsed electromagnetic energy on the ability of rats to run a maze.
Female white albino rats were trained to run a maze using hunger as motivation. The maze was constru...
Animals showed a startle reaction to the electromagnetic pulses. Some animals displayed hesitation a...
The experiment demonstrates that there is a brief but reversible effect on the function of the central nervous system when it is subjected to a pulsed electromagnetic field of high density. The ability to run a maze was temporarily disrupted, with the mechanism possibly involving interference with decision-making strategies. The effect was reversible within 30 minutes, but incomplete recovery occurred between exposures.
Show BibTeX
@article{the_psychologic_consequences_of_exposure_to_high_density_pulsed_electromagnetic__g3668,
author = {F. G. Hirsch and D. R. McGiboney and T. D. Harnish},
title = {The Psychologic Consequences of Exposure to High Density Pulsed Electromagnetic Energy},
year = {1968},
}