Homework: Which Brain Structures Would You Give Up?
Introduction:
Suppose you were the subject of a diabolical experiment looking at the functions of the various brain areas. A mad scientist wants to do "removal studies" in order to isolate these functions. The mad scientist does have a heart, though- he lets his subjects decide which brain structures they'd like to give up.
This homework requires an understanding of the various parts of the brain and their role in our daily functioning.
Task
For this Discussion Board, complete the following steps:
Step I:
Review the various parts of the brain and their functions by visiting the 3D Brain website (opens in a new window). For students who prefer an app, search for "3D Brain" wherever you buy apps. The app is free but you do have the option to purchase an upgrade for a small fee.
You are only responsible for understanding the parts of the brain that are covered in your textbook.
Step II:
In your initial post thoroughly discuss the following:
1) If you were the subject in this heinous (and thankfully fictional) experiment, which three brain structures would you give up? NOTE: You must choose specific parts of the brain, not brain regions. Students are not permitted to choose any of the four lobes or the cerebral cortex for removal.
2) Explain the function of those three structures. What is the role of each in your daily functioning? Be specific. DO NOT simply restate textbook information.
3) Explain why you chose those structures and describe what your life would be like without them. Again, be specific and DO NOT simply restate textbook information. For example, if I chose my hippocampus for removal I would experience significant memory impairment. As a result, it is unlikely that I would be able to work as an instructor (an inability to form new memories means I can't remember what I just said, much less deliver an entire lecture). I would also experience confusion about where I am and how I got there (again, removal or severe damage of the hippocampus results in an inability to form new memories meaning I can't remember what has happened from one moment to the next). However, it is possible that I would still retain some long-term memories formed years before the "removal", since those memories may have been moved to another part of the brain.
Format your homework according to the following formatting requirements:
(1) The answer should be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides.
(2) The response also includes a cover page containing the title of the homework, the student's name, the course title, and the date. The cover page is not included in the required page length.
(3) Also include a reference page. The Citations and references should follow APA format. The reference page is not included in the required page length.