Neurogenesis

While marmosets aren't people, we still share the primate branch on the evolutionary tree. 'Til now, it has been assumed that the number of neurons in the brain remained fixed since shortly after birth, but a study of our primate cousins suggests that isn't true. I realize a controlled study of some critters does not a universal law make, but it raises some good points. Their primary hypothesis is that under stressful or unstimulating conditions, the formation of new neurons is not only stunted, but existing neural pathways atrophy. Conversely, in a stimulating atmosphere new neural pathways are created (neurogenesis).

A particular quote from an article on the study resonated with me: "Boring environments, stressful noises, and [our] particular slot in the dominance hierarchy all shape the architecture of the brain." Compare that with where I spend 50-60 hours per week slaving for The Man: repetitive tasks around noisy machinery and clanging metal equipment as a low level worker drone in a massive quasi-governmental widget factory.

The greater implications of this study are more applicable to our society as a whole. Consider children challenged by poverty, domestic violence, malnutrition and the ubiquitous TV babysitter.

A quote from the article echoes conversations I have had with friends and family: "The mind is like a muscle: It swells with exercise." And some think my Sudoku puzzles are a waste of time.

Read the article I read here.