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The Brain: What It Is, What It Does
Introduces the human brain, its parts, how it works, and what it helps us accomplish, and discusses several animal brains.
63 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 1989
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November 28, 2021
According to the copyright page, no part of this book may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. Hence, no photo of the cover, currently.
This book was written in 1987. Research of the brain has continued since then. This is now an outdated book. There is useful information, but be aware that some of the conclusions have since been proven incorrect. Some new learning and my own thoughts are listed below.
SOME neurons CAN regenerate. Neurogenesis has been found to occur in the hippocampus and the amygdala. But still, take good care of your brain.
An incredibly important revelation (Though, haven't we always know this?) not to be missed is the influence of the microbiota that live upon and within us. The gut-brain axis has a big influence on how you feel and what you do. Beware of what you ingest. It may influence your internal environment in ways you did not expect. Feed your microbiota and your body nutritious food and beverages.
The spinal cord controls reflexes without input from the brain. It also plays a part in motor-learning.
At stages of brain development, the brain determines use of brain cells by the amount of use. Those that are not used are left to atrophy. Those that are used are kept. Use it or lose it. It takes a greater amount of time to try to do what those neurons were in charge of if one attempts to learn that skill later in life. Hence, learn and practice many new skills as a youth and keep at them. Memories are lost at stages, though some people are able to hold onto memories of their youth longer than others. Pondering memories may help them remain, but may also change them.
Substances have the potential of harm. Poisons may be medicines, in some cases, at very low doses. Too much of something can be deadly. A little bit of something might be fine--or it might not be, but too much will be detrimental. It all depends upon what it is. It also depends upon the body of the person. Some people are affected by some substances while others are not. It is a poor idea to use medicinal substances recreationally. Substances have their purpose, which includes limits. To disregard their purpose invites trouble.
This book was written in 1987. Research of the brain has continued since then. This is now an outdated book. There is useful information, but be aware that some of the conclusions have since been proven incorrect. Some new learning and my own thoughts are listed below.
SOME neurons CAN regenerate. Neurogenesis has been found to occur in the hippocampus and the amygdala. But still, take good care of your brain.
An incredibly important revelation (Though, haven't we always know this?) not to be missed is the influence of the microbiota that live upon and within us. The gut-brain axis has a big influence on how you feel and what you do. Beware of what you ingest. It may influence your internal environment in ways you did not expect. Feed your microbiota and your body nutritious food and beverages.
The spinal cord controls reflexes without input from the brain. It also plays a part in motor-learning.
At stages of brain development, the brain determines use of brain cells by the amount of use. Those that are not used are left to atrophy. Those that are used are kept. Use it or lose it. It takes a greater amount of time to try to do what those neurons were in charge of if one attempts to learn that skill later in life. Hence, learn and practice many new skills as a youth and keep at them. Memories are lost at stages, though some people are able to hold onto memories of their youth longer than others. Pondering memories may help them remain, but may also change them.
Substances have the potential of harm. Poisons may be medicines, in some cases, at very low doses. Too much of something can be deadly. A little bit of something might be fine--or it might not be, but too much will be detrimental. It all depends upon what it is. It also depends upon the body of the person. Some people are affected by some substances while others are not. It is a poor idea to use medicinal substances recreationally. Substances have their purpose, which includes limits. To disregard their purpose invites trouble.
Displaying 1 of 1 review