Chapter
The Three-Layered Brain Theory
22:22 - 28:01 (05:38)
The three-layered brain theory suggests that the cerebral cortex is layered on top of the already baked cake of the brain, and the popular view of brain evolution once suggested the presence of a reptilian core or inner lizard brain for instincts, which today is considered an oversimplification.
Clips
The popular view of brain evolution as having an inner lizard brain for instincts has been disproven with molecular genetic evidence in the mid-20th century.
22:22 - 25:34 (03:12)
Summary
The popular view of brain evolution as having an inner lizard brain for instincts has been disproven with molecular genetic evidence in the mid-20th century. It was discovered that the brain evolved with a limbic system for emotions on top of the reptilian core.
ChapterThe Three-Layered Brain Theory
Episode#129 – Lisa Feldman Barrett: Counterintuitive Ideas About How the Brain Works
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The three layer brain or the idea that the cortex is layered like icing on top of an already baked cake is a useful tool for conversation about emotions and behaviors, but it is not a useful narrative in the end.
25:35 - 28:01 (02:25)
Summary
The three layer brain or the idea that the cortex is layered like icing on top of an already baked cake is a useful tool for conversation about emotions and behaviors, but it is not a useful narrative in the end. Philosophy and science are useful tools for living, but we should not rely on them entirely to explain human behavior.