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Toxoplasmic Behavior Modification in Humans

By Robert Gomez and Christopher de Cardenos

Abstract: With Toxoplasma gondii effecting 30-80 % of the human population researchers are starting to speculate if this parasitic infestation could account for differences in cultural diversity between communities. The changes in question are subtle but when observed in large numbers a pattern begins to appear that could, in part, account for the variability we see between individual from different communities. This variability includes education, intelligence, morality, social values, and overall physical performance.

We will also explore the purpose of this infection to determine if the behavior modification seen in humans is a deliberate attempt at mind control or the biological byproduct of parasite's infection.

Outline:

I. Toxoplasmosis

a. Path of Infection
b. Communities Infected

1. Areas of high infection

II. Behavior Modification in Humans

a. Effects of Infection
b. Results of Research

III. Purpose of Infection

a. Infection in Rats
b. Infection in Humans

Works Cited

Lafferty, K., D., 2005. Look what the car dragged in: do parasites contribute to the human cultural diversity? Behavior Processes, 58: 279-282.

Flegr, J., Marek, P., Klose, J., Havlicek, J., Vitakova, M., and Kodym, P., 2003, Decreased level of psychobiological factoe novelty seeking and lower intelligence in men latently infected with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Dopamine, a missing link between schizophrenia and toxoplasmosis? Biological Psychology, 63: 253-268.

Flegr, J., Zitkova, S., Kodym, P., Frynta, D., 1996. Induction of changes in human behavior by the parasitic protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. Department of Parasitology, Charles University, Prague.

Holliman, R. E., 1997. Toxoplasmosis, Behaviour and Personality. Journal of Infection 35: 105-110.