As AI reshapes the global economy, investing in the human brain has never been more important. On World Brain Day, a global campaign to raise awareness of brain health, McKinsey Health Institute (MHI) explores why brain capital, the combination of brain health and brain skills, is a strategic economic asset.
In a recent MHI report, Erica Coe, Jacqueline Brassey, Kana Enomoto, Lucy Pérez, and coauthors argue that investments in cognitive, emotional, and social capabilities can strengthen resilience, improve workforce performance, and unlock long-term prosperity. To help organizations and policymakers take action, the report outlines five levers to activate brain capital: safeguard brain health, foster brain skills, study brain capital, invest in brain capital, and mobilize around brain capital through coordinated action. Together, these mutually reinforcing actions offer a roadmap for building stronger workforces, healthier societies, and more resilient economies.
This World Brain Day, explore insights from MHI on how investing in brain capital can unlock human potential in the age of AI.
The human advantage: Stronger brains in the age of AI
The new case for brain health: Scaling interventions for health and economic growth
The brain economy explained: Why strong brains power strong economies
The health of nations: Stronger health, stronger economies
The future is shared: Financing task-sharing programs in mental health