How many times have motivational speakers told the myth of 10%? I've heard it in varying versions:
"We only use 10% of our brains! Here's how you can tap into the other 90% of your mental resources!" (Just buy my program, my books, my tapes, etc.)
This myth is often used in conjuction with..."Only 21 days to a new habit," and "Your brain records everything it was ever told, ever experienced. Here's how you can reprogram it!"
Admittedly, the use of some of these myths by hypnotherapists and motivational gurus can bring benefits, and that's a good thing. But it is more of a testimonial to the power of our believing in something, and taking action, than actual facts about the brain.
So here's the truth about the myth of using only 10 percent of your brain, as reported in the print magazine Scientific American Mind. Dr. Barry L. Beyerstein, a psychologist in the Brain Behavior Laboratory at Simon Fraser University, Burnaby. B.C. explains:
Perhaps it is unwelcome news, but neuroscience has found no vast, unused cerebral reservoir for us to tap. In addition, a study of self-improvement products by a National Research Council panel found that no "brain booster" is a reliable substitute for practice and hard work when it comes to getting ahead in life.
He goes on to explain that as the brain has been shaped by evolution, and survival of the best brains; it doesn't make sense to think that a brain that was 90% fallow would be selected by natural processes. The brain is too metabolically expensive an organ to keep 90% not being used.
Furthermore, as neuroscientists continue mapping the brain and localizing each area for functioning, they haven't as yet found any neurons or areas that have no purpose. Just about every neuron they've applied electrical stimulation to is associated with a function, thought or memory. No quiet areas have been discovered.
Dr. Beryerstein concludes:
The 10 percent myth has undoubtedly motivated many people to strive for greater creativity and productivity in their lives - hardly a bad thing. The comfort, encouragement and hope that it has engendered helps to explain its longevity. But, like so many uplifting myths, the truth of the matter seems to be its least important aspect.
Well said. The whole point being, if a myth works for you, use it. It's called a belief system, and quite frankly, most of them are made up anyway. Just because what you believe in may not be factually true, doesn't mean it won't give you motivation, and energy, and a good feeling. That's what religions do, after all, and we all know how powerful they are. And they are all built upon myths.
Okay, you can comment and tell me your religion isn't a myth but the Real Truth, but please remember, this is a blog about the brain, not religion.
Of course, they've even located a God spot in the brain...but that's more likely a function of evolution, according to my own belief system. Your thoughts?
God spot, according to your beliefs is attributed to evolution. My thoughts are that your opinions do not equal fact and add up to a denial.
Science has not and cannot prove religion is a myth. All that is logical is that not all religions can be equally true (including evolution).
How do you find which is true if it cannot be found out empirically? Only the ill informed and those with personal bias would promote their own opinions when no empirical evidence is available for support, which is a shame that you would lay down your opinion in such a way when you are claiming authority to debunk an unfortuante myth about the brain. It kind of weakens your argument and that's a shame because the 10% thing truly is a myth and can be shown to be by empirical observation. (You should have left your opinions out of it if you wanted to make a strong, scientific point).
The only empirical evidence that would support truth is if the truth could actually be observed. Since only one belief system can provide that opportunity it is the wise who choose to observe it and base their decisions accordingly.
Posted by: Psych Doctor | March 16, 2008 at 10:25 PM