Newsletter 31: The Dance of the Hemispheres. Unraveling Iain McGilchrist's Insights.
1 Introduction
Iain McGilchrist, a distinguished thinker, and psychiatrist, guides us through the enigmatic landscape of the human brain, providing profound insights into the evolution and dynamics of its hemispheres. This article embarks on a journey from the roots of our mammalian brain to the intricate interplay between the left and right hemispheres, exploring McGilchrist's revelations about inhibitory neurons, the corpus callosum, and the contrasting perspectives of the two hemispheres that shape our consciousness.
2 Evolution of Inhibitory Neurons
Dr Iain McGilchrist offers a captivating perspective on the evolutionary trajectory of the mammalian brain, tracing its origins from smaller creatures like the shrew to the intricate complexity of the human brain. Along this evolutionary road, inhibitory neurons become increasingly prevalent. Mammals, primates, and humans, in particular, showcase a heightened presence of inhibitory neurons. McGilchrist reveals a compelling parallel between inhibition and the carving of experience, proposing that discarding certain elements play a pivotal role in bringing forth new dimensions of cognition, for example seeing the world (reality) as a seamless flow or a fixed entity[1] .
3 The Changing Role of the Corpus Callosum
A significant transformation unfolds in the corpus callosum, a band of fibers connecting the two hemispheres at the base of the brain. Initially facilitatory, conveying information between hemispheres, it evolved into a primarily inhibitory force. McGilchrist elucidates that this shift is a response to the need for focused attention. The dynamic interplay between the left and right hemispheres becomes more pronounced, as the inhibitory nature of the corpus callosum directs attention to specific cognitive processes. This includes the contrasting perspectives of seeing the world as a seamless whole or fragmenting it into parts, fostering artificial separations[2] .
4 Seamless Flow vs. Categorization
A profound distinction emerges in how the left and right hemispheres perceive the world. McGilchrist contrasts the left hemisphere's inclination to freeze and categorize the world, with the right hemisphere's engagement with the living moment. The left hemisphere tends to see the world as a concatenation of infinitesimal slices, while the right hemisphere perceives it as a seamless flow. McGilchrist argues that this often-overlooked perspective demands our attunement to the intricate interconnectedness of existence.
5 Intelligence and the Right Hemisphere
McGilchrist challenges conventional notions of intelligence, contending that the right hemisphere possesses a deeper intelligence than its left counterpart. Supporting this claim, he notes that damage to the right hemisphere results in a more substantial drop in overall IQ than damage to the left. The right hemisphere's inclination to say "yes, but" inhibits impulsive actions, reflecting a nuanced and context-aware intelligence.
6 Love as Pure Attention
McGilchrist emphasizes the mysterious and expansive nature of a fundamental loving consciousness, suggesting that consciousness is rooted in the entirety of our experiences, both known (conscious) and unknown (subconscious). Drawing on the wisdom of French existentialist philosopher Lavelle, McGilchrist introduces the concept of love as pure attention to the existence of the other. As a psychiatrist, he attests to the transformative power of this attention, describing it as a deeply creative force that alters both the observer and the observed.
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7 Every Concept's Dual Perspective
McGilchrist highlights that every concept we encounter has a left hemisphere take and a right hemisphere take. While both hemispheres perform similar functions, they approach concepts from coherently different perspectives. This dual perspective enriches our understanding of the world, adding depth and nuance to our perceptions.
8 The Vortex of Life
McGilchrist introduces the concept of the vortex - a cosmic whirlpool symbolizing the fundamental nature of flow. Drawing inspiration from early Greek philosopher Democritus and physicist David Tong, McGilchrist argues that nature, at its core, is continuous, giving rise to quantum phenomena and discontinuity. The vortex, with its spiral nature, becomes a metaphor for progress, embodying both circularity and upward movement.
9 Creative Resistance: The Role of Obstruction
Challenging the notion that resistance is merely an impediment, McGilchrist asserts that it is an essential aspect of creativity. Examples from vortex streets and water flow illustrate that resistance is not only necessary but also generates new and beautiful forms. This idea extends to human existence, where challenges and obstacles contribute to growth and innovation.
10 Conclusion
Iain McGilchrist's exploration into the dynamics of the brain offers a symphony of insights, from the evolutionary significance of inhibitory neurons in the corpus callosum and the contrasting perspectives of the left and right hemispheres. His work encourages us to appreciate the intricate dance between these hemispheres, shaping our cognition, perception, and the very essence of consciousness. As we navigate the complexities of our own minds, McGilchrist's revelations invite us to embrace the harmony of the brain's dual nature and explore the limitless possibilities within the symphony of our thoughts.
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