Neurobiology
Neurobiology
The brain is the pinnacle of the nervous system. Composed not only of a vast array of interconnected neurons but also a network of specialized support cells designed to nurture and protect this vital body organ. The function of the brain cannot be understood outside of its role within the body. Its role is to receive input from all body parts and to send control signals out in patterns we call behavior. Simple organisms with small nervous systems can be studied as reflex circuits. One type of input induces a predictable reaction. The sophistication and complexity of the human brain involves multiple, even redundant, areas of interconnecting circuits that produce compound reactions far beyond the realm of reflex. The brain colors its functions with processes we call memory, emotion, insight, personality and awareness of self. When separated from connections to the body the brain tissue ceases to behave and the study of its structure without observation of its participation in response to input and control of output becomes only a tour of microscopic cellular structures. The entire system funtions as a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts.
The field of Neuropsychiatry integrates the study of both structure and function of the nervous system with treatment approaches that may be biological or psychological in approach. In its entirety Neuroscience is melded with Behavioral Psychology. This is the interface of microbiology with the macro-world of behavior. This is a field of science that has not yet reached a zenith. It is an amazingly young field where the myths and beliefs of less than a century ago are undergoing continuous transformation into practical applications of health care. The study of psychology should not be considered complete without the study of brain physiology.
The excitement of this growing science carries with it many faults from philosophical wild guessing. Until relatively recent times, the center of thinking and emotions, were hidden from observation until modern electrical and chemical discoveries, permitted insight into their nature. Naturally, the explanations of processes so important yet so obscure emerged with many false beliefs and mystical trappings. In order to appreciate what is now known of neuropsychology, one cshould be familiar with the history of its conceptual origins. The study of current neuropsychology, though solid in its science, still treads softly upon the coat tails of inheritance from multiple diverse paths. The origin of this union still carries significant baggage from diverse philosopies that attempted to maintain power with mutual suspicion. Convergence of such diversity has come about only with persistence of conflict of ideologies along the perimeter of this youthful science.
