1. Cortical localization of brain functions: Franz Gall and the “science” of phrenology; Pierre Flourens’ mean demonstration; albation research; the law of mass action and the law of equipotentiality of brain parts.
 

2. Anatomy of the human nervous system
 

a. Central versus Reripheral nervous systems

b. The brain:

• Hind brain – medulla; cerebellum; reticular formation
• Midbrain
• Forebrain – the limbic system (hypothalamus, anygdala, hippicampus); thalamus
• Cerebral cortex – lobes; projection areas (sensory and motor); Broka’s area; Wernike’s area; association areas

3. How do we know all this?
 

a. Naturalistic studies – the cases of Mary Rafferty and Phineas Cage

b. Dr. Penfield’s research.

4. One or two brains? - evidence from split brain research.
 
 

CONCLUSIONS:

1. Many parts of the brain are involved in ANY action – there is no simplistic localization the way Gall thought.
2. Functions are somewhat localized but are still quite dynamic, i.e. can move from one area to another if need be.