wierd but true

by darwinist1859

Posted to WritersAndGenres on 2004-02-20 10:55:00

Parent message is 604738
Up until 2001 nobody thought new neurons could be produced, but indeed, not only are they constantly being produced but (at least in rats) they appear to be necessary for formulating new memories. Yes too about the adaptability of at least some regions of the brain to co-opt neurons from other regions of the brain (even opposite hemispheres in aphasia patients) to take over tasks following brain damage. The task is severely compromised but nevertheless–amazing. This was first published only two years ago. The brain is so freaking amazing. Hey if you want a good primer on this stuff (and cheap too, relatively) read Bruce Hinrich’s book Mind as Mosaic: The Robot in the Machine. He’s a terrific painter, poet, and brain science guy. There are usually used copies available on Amazon for $5.00 or so. His book is as much philosophy as brain science–and he’s GREAT on both.

Have a great weekend everybody (while I baby-sit two nephews and a niece, 4-8!!…check my sanity by Sunday night).

darwinist