Human Brain

The human brain is a complex, universal system of neurons and scientists are still trying to figure out the underlying reasons on how it works. As us humans being on the top of the evolutionary ladder, it only makes sense that our brains are the most diverse. The phrase, “can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is stating that once a dog (or other animal) reaches a certain age, it becomes almost impossible for them to pick any new abilities. When referring to humans, the phrase is almost obsolete because, thanks to recent studies, scientists now know that the human brain can, indeed, learn brand new concepts at an older age.

The study of neuroscience is still a relatively new idea and the scientists behind this study have found and coined many new theories about the human brain. Relative to this discussion, the terms neurogenesis and neuroplasticity have come to light. According to Coon and Mitterer (2016), neurogenesis is the brain creating new neurons and neuroplasticity is when ability of the brain to create new paths that neurons can take to have new abilities become easier to learn the more they are used. Our brains are designed for new information to shape and mold our minds. The process of neurogenesis and neuroplasticity occurs in both brains, but occur with much more ease in the human brain because of the sheer mass amount of neurons compared to the dog brain.

With the boost of new technological advances in the past half-century, we have been given the chance of viewing the brain’s activity closely. CT (computed tomographic) scans and MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging) have been huge components in many of the discoveries of the brain’s functions. CT scans can show damage by providing several X-rays at different angles (Coon & Mitterer, 2016). An MRI give us a more detailed image than a CT scan by using magnetic energy (Coon & Mitterer, 2016). By using a combination of CT scans and MRIs, scientists have been able to see how the brain reacts while...