back to db page
Left/Right Brain Decisions
( ... copied from the net - not Gary's
writing)
The brain is composed of two hemispheres,
known as the left and right hemisphere. While each hemisphere
has unique functions, which one side performs and the other does
not, both hemispheres possess the ability to analyze sensory data,
perform memory functions, learn new information, form thoughts,
and make decisions.
The way you use these abilities determines
a large part of your personality and behavior. By the time we,
as humans, are two years old, one hemisphere begins to dominate
your decision-making process. Communication between the two halves
is possible due to the corpus callosum and this process continues
to improve until the age of 15.
The left hemisphere specializes in
analytical thought. It is responsible for dealing with "hard"
facts such as abstractions, structure, discipline, rules, time
sequences, mathematics, categorizing, logic, rationality, and
deductive reasoning. It is also responsible for details, knowledge,
definitions, planning, goals, words, productivity, efficiency,
science, technology, stability, extraversion, physical activity,
and the right side of the body. Left hemisphere ability is the
predominant focus in school and society.
The right hemisphere specializes in
"softer" aspects than the left hemisphere. The right
hemisphere is responsible for intuition, feelings, sensitivity,
emotions, daydreaming, visualizing, creativity, color, spatial
awareness, and first impressions. It is also responsible for rhythm,
spontaneity, impulsiveness, the physical senses, risk-taking,
flexibility and variety, learning by experience, relationships,
mysticism, play and sports, introversion, humor, motor skills,
and the left side of the body (the old belief that left-handed
people are more creative does hold some scientific credence).
The right hemisphere also has a holistic method of perception
that is able to recognize patterns and similarities and combines
those elements into new forms.