In an attempt to combine the two discussion sections of "research methods" and "Biological Psychology", i took a closer look at the biological reasoning behind why we form heuristics. The mind is a wondrous thing. It is faster than a mighty computer and allows us to size up situations and take action in very short amounts of time. Because heuristics are split second short cuts, they can also lead us astray by not interpreting all information. According to scientists, they have discovered hundreds of heuristics used by our brains. Based on the brain's tendency to like to stick to known pathways, heuristics make decision making easier. Scientists have been studying those quick mental calculations for years and have found they work both to benefit us but may also fool us. But what part of our brain is responsible for this?
After looking more in depth, i found that there are different parts of the brain that are responsible for the difference between using a heuristic or using more of an analytical approach. Brain scans performed while people ponder problems indicate that using a heuristic device triggers different neural pathways than using these more analytical approaches. It is believed that heuristic thinking uses the left temporal lobe, and analytic thought activates the right lateral prefrontal cortex. I found this interesting that there is a certain part of our brain that is the main contributor in looking for shortcuts. Being the lazy kid that i am, i am beginning to more and more love my left temporal lobe.
Leave a comment