The human nervous system, centralized in the brain, is composed of billions of nerve cells called neurons. "The neuron consists of a cell body containing the nucleus and a conducting fiber, the axon… (which) forms synapses - from the Greek word meaning to ‘clasp together’ - with other neurons. Other cell processes, dendrites, extend from the neuron cell body and receive messages from other neurons (Brain 4)."
The system works by transmitting ions - charged atoms or small molecules - which creates a slight electrical current. The axons "trigger the release of special chemicals,
neurotransmitters,
which relay the impulse to the next neuron (Brain 4)." Receptors, when triggered by neurotransmitters, are commonly believed to act as on and off switches for the next cell.
Humans develop all of their neurons in utero and lose billions as they mature. The brain has been proven to be most open to learning between the ages of about 6-11.
Despite the explosion of neuroscience in the last twenty years, we still know relatively little about what is likely the most complex conglomeration of matter known to man. "The motivation of researchers is twofold: to understand ourselves better - from how we learn to why people have trouble getting along - and to discover ways to prevent or cure many devastating brain disorders (i.e. Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, depressive disorders, epilepsy, schizophrenia, etc.) (Brain 4)."
Essential Terms in Science and Philosophy
plutonic) (charonic