Defining "The Mind" Understanding the mind is the key to understanding the nature of humanity. Depending on your discipline (religion, philosophy, biology, etc.), you might see the mind as the embodiment of a spirit that outlives the flesh, as a "soul" that is unique to each human being, or as an illusion created a machine-like neural network. The perspective taken by psychology does not fit squarely into one of these categories, but it leans toward the latter understanding of the mind. In simple terms, psychology defines the "mind" as "what the brain does." This definition allows for an empirically based analysis of human nature. |
The Brain The human brain, which weighs in at about 3 pounds, is the most complex known structure in the universe. Through interaction with the central and peripheral nervous systems, it controls all of our actions, thoughts, and bodily functions. Its structure and function is constantly being investigated through technology such as fMRI, PET, CAT, MRI, EEG, and through case studies with brain-damaged patients. Much of the brain's functions have already been delineated. |