What do you need to battle giant monsters? A good weapon is a must, as is good protection, like a massive mech suit. But, at least according to the Pacific Rim universe, to most effectively face down a kaiju, you also need two brains. Why would three kilograms of thinking meat be so much better than one-and-a-half when canceling an apocalypse?
In my latest episode of Because Science, I’m jumping into the breach to figure out why a Pacific Rim “jaeger” needs two pilots—two brains—to properly function. I don’t think it has anything to with brain capacity. We use 100% of our brains, not 10%, and so any argument there falls down faster than a kaiju hit with an elbow rocket. And it’s not because humans are either “left brain-dominant” or “right brain-dominant.” Each pilot may control one hemisphere of the robot’s combined brain, but this wouldn’t have anything to do with being “more creative” or “more logical.”
No, I think the bi-brain requirement has to do with our inability to truly multitask, and the advantages that come with not thinking. The best jaeger pilots will be like the best musicians or athletes or chess players—they won’t even have to think about what fist to throw next.
After you watch the new episode above, check out my last video on why you don’t want super strength, buy a Because Science shirt, mug, hat, or collectible pin, and follow me on Twitter to give me a suggestion for the next episode or on Instagram. Want Because Science days before anyone else? Subscribe to Alpha for early access to the show and peep my premium show The S.P.A.A.C.E. Program!
Catch up on the latest Because Science!
- How does Black Panther’s vibranium suit work?
- What toxin is on Poison Ivy’s lips?
- Why you don’t want super strength
