Thanks for the thought provoking article!

When they saw their old cues, however, they unthinkingly pressed the lever and ate the food, or they walked across the floor, even as they vomited or jumped from the electricity. The habit was so ingrained the mice couldn’t stop themselves.

I'm not sure whether to believe this applies to more complex mammals. The McDonald's example is problematic, because the punishment isn't immediate. Were there any other examples of what happens if you replace/follow the reward with punishment? Replacing every harmful habit with a useful one seems like a lot of work.

I've been thinking about self-administering mild electric shocks or something of the like when I pursue an unwanted behaviour, but lack an appropriate device. Any suggestions, anyone?

People with damage to the basal ganglia

Usually caused by Parkinson's disease. Using a familiar word might give people a better idea of what you're talking about.