wrote:
wrote:
Why not, indeed. Did you ever run across McClean's triune theory
of the evolution of the human brain? Boiled down, it says that
the human brain is evolved on top of (rather than in place of)
the old reptilian brain, and that it consists of the old
reptilian brain (which controls basic functions necessary to
survival, aggression), the old mammalian brain (the limbic
system, responsible for emotional regulation and more complex
behaviors) and new mammalian brain, the cerebral cortex,
responsible for "higher functions" such as planning and language.
Each of these functions somewhat on its own, but is highly
interconnected with the other parts.

Interesting. This article would seem to give some credence to that
theory...
http://www.newscientist.com/article/...obstacles.html

It does fit nicely, doesn't it?

That's an pretty clear demonstration of blindsight... but
blindsight has been recognized for quite a few years, it's just
that this is a clearer demonstration than most, because the guy's
visual cortex (a part of his new mammalian brain) was completely
destroyed, and he can't recognize things like colors or objects.
Yet he can navigate an obstacle course, even though he thinks
he can't see the obstacles.

Natalie Angier gives more context for the research and the
phenomenon he
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/23/health/23blin.html

The existence of a "second" visual system in mammals has been
known for a long time - about 10% of the neurons go from the
optic tract go to an older brain structure called the superior
colliculus (located in the midbrain), which contains neurons that
respond to movement, especially, and to some types of shapes. It
participates in control of eye movements and visually-guided
behavior. It seems to be structurally and functionally similar
to corresponding structures in other vertebrates. It's been
hypothesized that this system is more primitive than the cortical
system and that its functioning is not directly available to
consciousness.

FurPaw

--
Don't believe everything that you think.

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