The Brain

• Before 19th century scientists supported holistic view of the brain - all parts were involved in the processing of thought and action
• During 19th century it was discovered that certain areas of the brain held particular functions - known as localistation of brain function
• Localisation of function refers to the principle that specific functions (language, memory, hearing) have specific locations within the brain
• Early 19th century witnessed a growth of interest in the localisation of functions within the brain and Franz Gall's theory of phrenology (the study of the structure of the skull to determine a person's character and capacity) was undoubtedly influential but quickly discredited
• Using animal studies, Pierre Flourens was able to demonstrate that the main divisions of the brain were responsible for different functions. Since Gall and Flourens - techniques have grown considerably more sophisticated as has understanding of the human brain
• Lateralisation - the brain is divided into two hemispheres: left and right. Each hemisphere is responsible for specific functions
• Localisation of cortical function: the theory that specific areas of the brain are associated with particular physical and psychological factors
• Lateralisation of cortical function: the dominance of one hemisphere of the brain for particular physical and psychological functions
• Language function resides in the left hemisphere; all language centres are in the left
• The key language centres are Broca's area and Wernicke's area
• Broca's region: responsible for speech production, converting thought into speech
• Wernicke's region is responsible for comprehension of speech
• Broca's aphasia leads to an inability to produce speech
• Wernicke's aphasia leads to an inability to comprehend speech/ speech may be non-sensical
• Left and side of brain controlled by right hemisphere and vice versa. The brain is cross-wired.
• The motor cortex is located at the back of the frontal lobe and is responsible for controlling voluntary movements. Damage to the area results in impaired motor movement