> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: > >> One thing that most don't realize; during develolpement we grow > many more neurons than we "need". According to Hebbs hypothesis > neurons compete for connections; those that can make the > connections live while those that do not die off. The driving force is > the sensory nervous system; Skin requires sensory nerves in the CNS; > the brain wires itself by this demand/selection method. << >
> Kevin Street wrote: > That's fascinating! But if it's all based on the demands of a > baby's sensory nervous system, how can there be neurons "left over" > for thinking and all the other mental processes? > Brain development continues on through at least the first few years of childhood. New neurons are being grown and/or new connections are being made (It's been amazing watching this happen with Megan over the last year) well after birth. But there's definitely a "use it or lose it" effect. -- Matt
