A Special Place for Blog Lovers with a Touch of Science!

Image credit: L.A. Cicero

Robert Morris Sapolsky (born April 6, 1957) is an American neuroendocrinology researcher and author. He is currently a professor of biology, a professor of neurology and neurological sciences at Stanford University. In addition, he is a research associate at the National Museums of Kenya. He spent years studying baboons in Kenya, he is a great storyteller and we could even say, philosopher. There is no need to praise his achievements anymore because they are widely recognized.

In the short video below, he dares to discuss one quite ticklish and delicate topic – the nature of military conflicts with regard to the war in Ukraine. Of course, he speaks on the behalf of science, however, the information he discloses besides the scientific facts is a thorn in the flesh of all governments and institutions of power. There is nothing more to say here, just watch the video and decide for yourself.

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The brain - mystery (un)solved

The human brain is arguably the most complicated thing in the known universe. After centuries of introspection, examinations, and experiments, we still don't know a lot about it. Of course, we've made all these terms, divided its structure into different areas, each one responsible for particular functions. But the truth is that the brain works as a holistic union and is not a composite of various parts but a single unit within the human body. However, it is a lot easier to understand it, if we use concepts and differentiate one part from another. Like the one put forth by Paul MacLean – the triune brain – that it is coming in three functional layers. The most bottom and ancient one – Reptilian Brain. Second – the Limbic System or Emotional Brain, "having to do with fear, arousal, anxieties, sexual longings, all those sorts of things – very mammalian". And third, The Cortex – responsible for thinking planning, moral judgments, etc.

Below you can enjoy an elucidating explanation of these three layers of the brain, their evolution, complex conversation, and connection with our behavior. Take a look at the video made by Robert Sapolsky, a professor of Biology and Neurology at Stanford University and a Research Associate with the Institute of Primate Research, National Museums of Kenya.