The population of 15-65 year olds is steadily decreasing, and in a half century, it is expected to be just one half of the total population. The aged., i.e., those more than 65 years of age, are expected to account for one-third of the total population. Unless brain science research yields an effective means of preventing some of the major effect of aging of the brain, the future of our society will not be bright. The second reason is strongly curiosity of people in general regarding brain mechanisms related to mind and behavior. Many books on this subject are selling well, and open lectures by brain science experts attract large audiences.
People like to know how their brain works, including how it supports their mental activities.
Such strong interest of lay people should be maintained in the right direction, without being deviated to mysticism. Abuse of brain science knowledge should be strictly avoided. Education in middle schools and junior and senior high schools will become increasingly important for appropriate transfer of brain science knowledge to society. The establishment of the new brain science research center will enable us to overcome various difficulties inherent to Japanese research systems. Technicians seem to have almost disappeared from Japanese laboratories.