What Makes Us Human: The Brain's Unique Features

 

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The question of what makes us human has intrigued scientists, philosophers, and thinkers for centuries. The answer lies mainly within our brains, particularly the cerebrum, which distinguishes us from even our closest phylogenetic relatives—the great apes. By examining the anatomical and functional properties of the human brain, we can begin to understand the unique cognitive abilities that define our humanity.

The Human Brain: Anatomical Marvels that Inspire Awe

One of the most striking differences between humans and other great apes is our brain size. Humans possess a larger brain-to-body size ratio, known as the encephalization quotient (EQ), which correlates with advanced cognitive functions. The cerebral cortex, responsible for higher-order functions like reasoning and abstract thought, is highly developed in humans. This extensive development is particularly evident in the prefrontal cortex, the brain's command center for complex behaviors, decision-making, and social interactions.

The human brain's structural intricacies extend beyond size. Our brains boast more pronounced gyri (ridges) and sulci (grooves), increasing the cerebral cortex's surface area and allowing for more neurons and synaptic connections. This complex architecture is complemented by enhanced neural connectivity, with more extensive white matter facilitating efficient communication between different brain regions.

Functional Sophistication:

The Human Brain's Impressive Abilities in language, Executive Functions, and Social Cognition Humans' ability to use language is the most profound functional distinction. Specialized brain regions such as Broca's and Wernicke's areas support language production and comprehension, enabling us to convey and understand complex ideas. Mirror neurons, a unique feature of the human brain, play a crucial role in imitation and understanding others' actions. They further underpin our capacity for language and social behaviors, as they allow us to learn from others and understand their intentions.

The prefrontal cortex, a key region of the brain, supports executive functions, another hallmark of human cognition. This brain region allows us to engage in advanced planning, goal-setting, and decision-making. It also plays a crucial role in social interactions, as it is responsible for understanding and responding to social cues. Our capacity for abstract thinking enables problem-solving, creativity, and developing complex technologies—capabilities that set us apart from other species.

Social cognition is another area where humans excel. We possess an advanced theory of mind, the ability to attribute mental states to others, which is essential for empathy, cooperation, and social interactions. Our refined emotional regulation mechanisms, which help us manage and express our emotions appropriately, are crucial for navigating complex social structures and maintaining relationships.

Cognitive and Cultural Dimensions

Our cognitive abilities extend into the realm of symbolic thought. Humans uniquely create and appreciate art and music, reflecting our capacity for symbolism and abstract expression. The development of writing systems and mathematical concepts further demonstrates our ability to manipulate abstract ideas.

Cultural transmission is another defining feature of humanity. We live in complex, organized societies with intricate cultural practices, norms, and traditions passed down through generations. While other primates use tools, human tools exhibit a higher degree of complexity and innovation, driven by cumulative cultural evolution.

Self-awareness and Ethical Reasoning

Self-awareness and the ability to reflect on our thoughts and actions are human traits. Our heightened consciousness allows us to contemplate our existence, leading to moral and ethical reasoning development. Guided by cultural, religious, and philosophical principles, humans reflect profoundly on right and wrong, justice and fairness.

In essence, what makes us human is a unique combination of anatomical and functional properties of our brains, particularly the cerebrum. These features endow us with advanced cognitive abilities, enabling us to engage in complex social behaviors, create and share culture, and innovate in ways unparalleled by other great apes. As we continue to explore the mysteries of the human brain, we deepen our understanding of the essence of humanity itself. This journey promises to be as enlightening as it is infinite.

Why Do I think of Myself as A Cynic

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"Make yourself an honest man, and then you may be sure there is one rascal less in the world". -Thomas Carlyle

In a world where the culture of "el vivo vive del bobo y el bobo de papá y mamá" prevails, it's not hard to see why I might consider myself a cynic. This saying, which roughly translates to "the smart one lives off the fool, and the fool lives off mom and dad," encapsulates a mindset that is one of my biggest pet peeves. I have a deep-seated aversion to those who constantly blame everything but themselves for their circumstances—those who lament, "boo ho, poor me" while pointing fingers at their parents, the weather, or society at large.

I was raised on the premise that if you want something, you go get it. There was no waiting to see if it would fall from the sky. For me, no one owed me anything; that meant complete freedom. Growing up, I saw too much of the contrary, and even today, people seem content to bemoan their fate without taking any steps to change it. This pervasive attitude feeds my cynicism.

I grew up in a coastal city in northern Colombia, where the culture often mirrored the mentality -among other things I've come to disdain. Yet, amid this environment, my mother emerged as my hero. She was the embodiment of integrity and honesty. Her actions taught me the value of hard work and the futility of expecting handouts from anyone. She was a woman ahead of her time, instilling in me principles that seem almost alien in today's world.

While I love my dad, I can't say he is my hero in the same way. My mother demonstrated what it means to be self-reliant and steadfast in one's values. From her, I learned that life's rewards come to those who earn them, not those who sit and wait for them to be handed out.  

One of the aspects I dislike most is the entitled mentality, where people want things for free or believe that those who have them should automatically give to those who do not have them. Don't get me wrong, I am a big giver. I believe in generosity, but I prefer to teach someone how to fish rather than simply handing out fish. My mother used to say in Spanish, "Nadie sabe por dónde le llueve el agua al Molino," which means "No one knows where the water will rain down on the mill." This saying emphasizes the unpredictability of life and the necessity of being prepared and self-sufficient. It teaches that relying on others can be as uncertain as waiting for rain to fall in the right place; it's far better to cultivate one's resources and resilience.

This upbringing has profoundly shaped my worldview. I often feel like I'm from the wrong planet, an outsider in a society that too frequently celebrates victimhood and entitlement over accountability and resilience. My cynicism isn't born of bitterness but frustration with a culture that seems to have lost its way, a culture that too often forgets that progress is made by those who take responsibility for their own lives.

So yes, I sometimes think of myself as a cynic, more like a skeptic based on my life experiences. But it's a cynicism grounded in believing we can and should do better; It's a call to return to the values of hard work, self-reliance, and integrity—values that my mother lived by and passed down to me. In a world where the "el vivo vive del bobo y el bobo de papá y mamá" mentality still thrives, I will continue to hold on to the lessons she taught me, ever the cynic and believer in personal responsibility.

Recognizing the Strength in Humility and Lifelong Learning

 “People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other.” -Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

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I started in the medical field in 2007 and have experienced many roles and responsibilities. My journey, from obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2014 to earning a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education and a Post-Master’s Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner, has been both challenging and rewarding. I have been a nurse for ten years now, but before that, I was a stress tech working for a busy cardiology practice; then, I moved to work as an EMT while working on my BSN, slowly starting my career as an RN in the emergency department. I could also cross-train as a PACU nurse and do both simultaneously, serve in the ER as needed, and do pre-op, post-op, and PACU, all while studying to become a nurse practitioner later and raising a family. 

Since the summer of 2020, I’ve proudly served as a Nurse Practitioner, a role that has solidified my belief in the value of kindness, continuous learning, and humility. For instance, my willingness to learn from my mistakes and from others has helped me improve my patient care and communication skills. This has enhanced my professional growth and fostered a more collaborative and respectful work environment. Although I feel this is a daily learning experience, one of my life's goals is to continue to improve my communication skills. 

I am a lifelong learner, constantly immersing myself in the role of a student. This commitment to learning is a professional necessity and a personal passion that brings me immense joy. The process of acquiring new knowledge and skills is a path I willingly embrace, and I hope to inspire others to do the same. This openness to learning, sometimes leading to a perception of being a know-it-all, is rooted in a genuine interest in engaging with the world around me rather than asserting superiority.

In my interactions with colleagues, I deeply respect their expertise and roles. Each individual brings a unique set of strengths and areas of expertise. However, it’s disheartening to observe, at times, how some individuals feel a sense of superiority based on their experience or education. This hierarchy can be detrimental, as it overlooks the value of each person's expertise. Just because one person excels in one area does not diminish the value of another’s expertise in a different domain. It's important to remember that we all have something valuable to contribute.

Humility and humbleness are often misunderstood concepts. Humility does not imply a failure to recognize our achievements but acknowledging our fallibility. It means accepting and learning from our mistakes and listening to others when necessary. On the other hand, humbleness is a more outward expression of humility, often seen in our interactions with others. It’s about understanding that no matter how much we know, there is always room for growth and improvement.

In the spirit of humility, I often remind myself and others not to mistake kindness for weakness. Kindness is a strength that fosters collaboration and understanding. It’s a quality that should be cherished and respected, not exploited. By valuing kindness, we can create an environment where everyone feels appreciated and respected. For instance, showing kindness in our interactions with colleagues can lead to better teamwork and more effective patient care.

As we navigate our professional and personal lives, let’s remember the importance of humility, continuous learning, and respect for one another’s unique contributions. These values enhance our lives and enrich the communities and fields in which we work. Ultimately, it’s not just about what we achieve but how we achieve it, with kindness and humility guiding our way. This reassurance and guidance can help us all strive for excellence in our work, and I hope it inspires you to do the same.

Behind a window

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by Rosabel Zohfeld

Behind a window, behind a curtain's fold, 

A man, a woman, a husband, a wife,

a mother, a father,

 a grandpa, a grandma, 

Watch silently as their loved one ascends, 

Rising to the occasion where destiny blends.

Through challenging moments, they stood steadfast and true, 

Guiding with wisdom, as only loved ones do,

 through thin and thick, for better or for worse, 

They helped them shine, and their love is an eternal verse.

In quiet admiration, their hearts beat in rhyme, 

Witnessing triumph forged in the furnace of time, 

For love knows no bounds, distance, or blur;

they cheer from afar, a constellation's allure.

Behind that window, behind that gentle veil,

is a family's bond, an unwavering tale of support, 

hope and dreams unfolding as they watch their dear ones,

brave and bold.

The Beauty of Life's Little Details

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In a world that constantly pushes us to "see the bigger picture," it's easy to overlook the intricate beauty of life's little details. We are often so consumed by grand achievements and long-term goals that we forget the profound significance of small, everyday victories. This perspective is especially crucial when considering the lives of those with disabilities. For them, the seemingly insignificant tasks many take for granted become monumental accomplishments.

Take, for instance, my 8-year-old son. Recently, he mastered the art of tying his shoes. At first glance, this might seem like an ordinary milestone that many children achieve at a younger age. However, my son was diagnosed with a neurological condition that makes such tasks far more challenging. Although I'm not ready to fully disclose his diagnosis, I invite you to look up "agenesis of the corpus callosum" if you're curious. Understanding this condition might offer insight into the significance of my son's achievement.

We often need to pay more attention to the complexity and effort behind mundane activities. Most of us effortlessly get out of bed each morning, brush our teeth, get dressed, and head to work. For many, driving a car is second nature, a skill learned long ago and now performed automatically. But for individuals with disabilities, these tasks can represent significant hurdles, requiring immense perseverance and resilience to overcome.

Such small victories remind us of our humanity. They ground us in the present, urging us to appreciate the here and now. In our fast-paced lives, where we're constantly chasing after the next big thing, it's easy to forget to live in the moment. We become so preoccupied with future successes that we miss the joys and triumphs of today.

My son's journey to tying his shoes serves as a potent reminder that life is made up of these small details. Each step he took towards mastering this task was a testament to his determination and strength. The smile and excitement on my child's face as he achieved something so simple for many was priceless. These little moments, these tiny victories, make life rich and meaningful.

So, the next time you're tempted to dismiss a small achievement as trivial, take a moment to consider the effort and perseverance behind it. Recognize the beauty in the details and appreciate the significance of each step forward, no matter how small. Life isn't just about the grand achievements; it's about the countless little moments that make those significant victories possible. Embracing this perspective enriches our lives and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the journeys of those around us.

Why Neurology? A Journey of Intrigue and Discovery

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I remember vividly asking a fourth-year medical student why he chose neurology as his specialty. It was his first time attending our neurology clinical rounding's, and his answer reminded me of the very question I faced during my interview when transitioning from primary care to neurology. There must always be a reason for our choices, a "why" that drives us. When asked this question, I often respond with, "Do you really want to know?" or, "Do you want the short answer or the long answer?" The short answer is simple: I like it. The longer answer, however, is rooted in a deep fascination and personal journey.

So why did I chose neurology?

Reason number one: I am intrigued by the brain. The brain is the most complex organ in the human body, and its mysteries captivate me. Its capacity for thought, emotion, and control over every function of our bodies is nothing short of miraculous. Every day in neurology presents a new puzzle, challenge, and opportunity to learn.

Reason number two: I have a personal history of neurological conditions. A close family member was diagnosed with a fascinating and complex neurological disorder. This experience opened my eyes to neurology's profound impact on individuals and their families. Though I'll save the details for another time, this personal connection fueled my passion for the field.

Reason number three: A memorable encounter with a neurologist during my teenage years left a lasting impression on me. At 14, I had my own neurology consultation. I was captivated by the neurologist I met and the mysterious contents of his leather bag, which he carried everywhere. Fortunately, my neurological issues were resolved by age 16, but my curiosity and admiration for the field remained.

Today, neurology is the most intriguing and exciting field of medicine. Much is yet to be learned and discovered about the brain, the nervous system, and human behavior. Neurology offers a unique blend of complexity and opportunity for growth. In this field, not everything is said or written in stone. There is always room for new discoveries, tools, and a deeper understanding of the brain's role in sensations, behaviors, and feelings.

Perhaps one day, I will contribute to uncovering a new aspect of the brain, adding to the ever-evolving tapestry of neurology. Until then, I remain committed to this fascinating journey, driven by a passion that began with personal experiences and continues to grow with each new patient and discovery.

A Personal Opinion of The Power of Voice and the Fear of Expression

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In our bustling modern world, self-expression has never been more accessible, yet it has never been more contested. Each tweet, post, and comment we share testifies to our intrinsic desire to communicate our thoughts, dreams, and grievances. However, amid this digital age of expression, there is an increasing trend of silencing dissent and muting voices that challenge the status quo, often perpetuated through the platforms designed to amplify our voices. I offer this reflection to those who seek to quiet us: "I was not given a voice to be shut down. If God wanted me mute, I would have been born mute. I was given a voice to express my thoughts. To those who want to silence us, I say—look deep inside yourself; what are you afraid of?"

The right to speak and share one's perspective is fundamental to the fabric of a free society. It is the bedrock upon which democratic principles are built. Our voices are not just tools for communication; they are extensions of our identities, beliefs, and essence. When we are silenced, it is not merely words that are stifled but the nature of our humanity.

There's a song by Pink that says, "I'm never not gonna dance again." For me, I say, "I'm never not going to talk again." Growing up, I heard "shush shush" too much. Now that I am an adult, as long as I'm not saying or doing anything illegal, immoral, or unethical, I will continue to share my views. Don't get me wrong, I also know when to stay silent. I understand there must be balance, but I will speak up when necessary. That old story, "I can't believe you said that in front of... whomever," won't fly with me anymore. Perhaps they needed to hear some honest thoughts for once. Fear of the boss, the president, the director, or whoever is in charge won't stop me. As long as I am respectful, I will say what I think, fostering a culture of respectful expression that encourages diverse voices. 

The Fear of the Uncomfortable

Silencing stems from a deep-seated fear—fear of the unknown, fear of change, fear of being challenged. When individuals or institutions attempt to silence dissent, they reveal an inherent insecurity. They are threatened by perspectives diverging from their own and truths that unsettle their comfort zones. But it is precisely these uncomfortable truths that propel society forward and catalyze progress and innovation.

Historically, voices that dared to speak against prevailing norms faced suppression. Galileo was silenced for his heliocentric views, yet his ideas eventually redefined our understanding of the universe. Civil rights activists faced brutal opposition, yet their voices forged a path toward equality and justice. These examples underscore a crucial lesson: progress is born from the courage to speak out, not from the comfort of silence. Your voice and courage to speak out can be our society's birthplace of progress and change.

The Power of Expression

Our voices are powerful because they are diverse. Each person brings a unique perspective shaped by their experiences, culture, and insights. This diversity of thought is not a threat; it is a strength. It fosters dialogue, encourages empathy, and nurtures a more nuanced world understanding. By expressing our thoughts, we contribute to a richer and more inclusive collective wisdom. Your voice, your perspective, is an integral part of this collective wisdom, and it is crucial for the progress of our society.

I ask those seeking to silence you or me: What are you afraid of? Are you fearful that your beliefs might be challenged, your authority might be questioned, and your worldview might be expanded? These fears, while natural, should not lead to suppression. Instead, they should inspire curiosity, a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue, and an openness to growth.

Embracing Dialogue Over Silence

Silencing others does not strengthen our positions; it exposes their fragility. True strength lies in listening, engaging with differing viewpoints, and finding common ground. It lies in the courage to face uncomfortable truths and grow from them.

Let us not fear the voice of dissent but welcome it as a catalyst for progress. Let us recognize that our unique and invaluable voices are meant to be heard, not silenced. By embracing dialogue and championing the free expression of thoughts, we build a resilient, dynamic, and just society, even if it means facing uncomfortable truths and challenging our beliefs.

For those who say, "Opinions are like noses; everyone's got one," opinions matter because they are the foundation of meaningful communication and collaboration, vital for personal and societal development.

I reaffirm: I was not given a voice to be shut. I was given a voice to express my thoughts. To those who want to silence us, look deep inside yourself. What are you afraid of? Perhaps, in that introspection, you will find the courage to listen, engage, and grow, for we see the melody of progress and understanding in the chorus of diverse voices. Your voice, your unique perspective, is a vital part of this chorus, and it is through the collective expression of diverse voices, we can inspire progress and understanding in our society.

Opinion Editorial: A Magical Encounter with Gabriel Garcia Marquez

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On December 31, 1994, amidst the festive atmosphere of Cartagena, Colombia, within the storied walls of Hotel Santa Teresa's New Year's Eve party, I found myself in a moment that would forever crystallize in my memory. As a 14-year-old, I stood captivated as my favorite band played, surrounded by the excitement of the evening. Then, almost serendipitously, he appeared beside me — Gabriel Garcia Marquez, affectionately known as "El Gabo," the literary giant whose works had already woven into my imagination's fabric.

Garcia Marquez, a Nobel laureate renowned for his mastery of magic realism, stood before me, momentarily visible before disappearing into the crowd. His presence, though fleeting, left an indelible impression. Here was the man whose novels, steeped in myth and reality entwined, had transported me to worlds where love defied time and where everyday lives shimmered with extraordinary possibilities.

I had grown up enthralled by Garcia Marquez's literary prowess. His iconic works like "Love in the Time of Cholera" and "No One Writes to the Colonel" resonated deeply with me, each page brimming with the vibrant hues of Caribbean culture and the bittersweet rhythms of human existence. Reflecting on "El Coronel no tiene quien le escriba," a tale of an aging colonel's enduring wait for his pension, I was struck by Garcia Marquez's ability to imbue even the most ordinary lives with profound significance.

Meeting Garcia Marquez that night was more than a brush with celebrity; it was a meeting with the architect of my literary aspirations. I recall his smile, a silent acknowledgment that bridged the gap between reader and writer, admirer and artist. In that moment, I realized that the impact of his storytelling transcends mere words on a page — it embraces the essence of our shared humanity, our dreams, and our unyielding pursuit of meaning.

Throughout my life, I have encountered many figures of renown, yet I have always cherished these moments quietly, without seeking autographs or photographs. For me, the true essence lies in experiencing the magic of the encounter itself, in absorbing the aura of creativity and inspiration that Garcia Marquez embodied that evening.

As I continue to reflect on Garcia Marquez's literary legacy, I am reminded of storytelling's enduring power to illuminate, provoke, and connect. His exploration of love, solitude, and the complexities of Latin American identity reverberates through generations, offering us not just narratives but profound insights into the human condition.

In revisiting his works today, I find myself returning to the streets of Macondo, to the banks of the Magdalena River, and to the hearts of characters who live on beyond the pages. Each tale and phrase carries with it a piece of the magic realism that Garcia Marquez so passionately championed — a reminder that within the ordinary lies the extraordinary, and within each of us, the capacity to weave stories that endure across time.

As I celebrate the memory of that New Year's Eve encounter, I am reminded of the privilege of having stood briefly in the presence of greatness and of the responsibility to carry forward the torch of storytelling with the same reverence and imagination that Garcia Marquez ignited in me that unforgettable night in Cartagena.

The Quest for Compassionate Mentorship in Education and Healthcare

 

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It is with a heavy heart that I must admit, despite obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master's in Science in Nursing Education with a Clinical Educator component, and a post-masters graduate degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I still feel that there is much to be learned. Like so many others, my journey has been fraught with challenges, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Graduating as a Family Nurse Practitioner during this unprecedented time presented a unique set of difficulties, the most significant being the struggle to find preceptors. These seasoned professionals guide students through their clinical rotations, providing the essential hands-on experience and mentorship that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Unfortunately, such guidance was complex, and I found myself in the disheartening position of having to pay out of my pocket to secure a preceptor.

While I understand that education isn't free and resources are often stretched thin, the necessity to pay for mentorship is a symptom of a deeper issue within our educational and healthcare systems. The role of a preceptor is not just to oversee clinical practice but to nurture the development of future healthcare professionals. It should be a role undertaken with a sense of duty and a commitment to the profession.

Reflecting on my family's dedication to teaching and my own experiences, the essence of effective education lies in compassion and patience. 

My mother worked literally until the day she died. For 32 years, she dedicated herself to teaching elementary school children, and towards the end of her career, she was working on a Master of Arts degree to teach higher-level education. My dad and my aunts are also a teachers. I come from a family of educators, and I reflect on the state of teaching today with a heavy heart and a critical eye.

Despite my family's inspiring legacy, my personal experience with education has often been disappointing. In all my years of learning, I have encountered only a few teachers who genuinely cared whether their students retained the knowledge imparted to them. Far too often, I have seen teachers present information and then leave students to figure out what to do with it on their own. While this method may serve some purpose, I believe it falls short of effective teaching.

Actual teaching requires more than just presenting information; it demands engagement and understanding. It involves showing students how to do things and explaining the why behind them. This process takes time and patience; qualities often need more supply in our fast-paced educational system. Every student learns at a different pace and in various ways. I learn best through repetition and visual aids. While I can retain some verbal information, my ability to reproduce what I have learned increases dramatically when I can see and understand the process and reasoning behind it.

The current state of education often neglects these nuances. Students are diverse in their learning styles, and a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching needs to be revised. Effective education should cater to individual needs, fostering an environment where students are shown how to do things and understand why they are doing them. This approach helps retain information, develop critical thinking skills, and deepen appreciation for the subject matter.

I have always hoped to find someone who would take me under their wing, not out of financial necessity but out of a genuine passion for teaching and a desire to see their mentees succeed. I believe proper education extends beyond imparting knowledge; it fosters a supportive and enriching learning environment where students can grow professionally and personally.

Despite the setbacks and the hurdles, I have not lost hope. I am still on my quest, driven by the belief that there are teachers and mentors out there who are passionate about their work and eager to share their wisdom with the next generation of healthcare professionals. These individuals understand that the investment in education is not just about immediate returns but about cultivating a more competent, compassionate, and capable workforce for the future.

In conclusion, while becoming a proficient and compassionate Family Nurse Practitioner has been more challenging than anticipated, I remain hopeful. The search for mentors who embody the spirit of teaching and mentorship continues. I can become a better professional and person in my field with the proper guidance and support. To all the educators and mentors who dedicate themselves to this noble pursuit, your efforts do not go unnoticed, and your impact is profound.