Episode 2 of the Brain with David Eagleman we look at the phases of the developing brain. By being born with an underdeveloped brain, it has enabled us to mould and shape our brain in order become completely suited for any given environment; something that has helped the human species flourish across the entire globe. From birth, we are reliant on sensory information in order to make sense of and understand the world around us. We look at a tragic incident in which Romanian orphans are deprived of human contact and basic stimulation; resulting in the brain failing to make vital connections which are needed to fully develop.
We look at how from raw biological matter, our brains create emotion, memories and ultimately shape your personality. Our journey through life is constantly shaping and refining our brain, and as we learn new skills and have new experiences, physical changes are being undertaken within the brain. We meet a group of elderly nuns who remarkably appear to fight off the symptoms of Alzheimer's by keeping their brain active and building up a 'cognitive reserve'.
