The idea that humans use only 100% of their brains has captivated interest and curiosity for decades. It is often depicted in science fiction works with extraordinary abilities such as superintelligence, telekinesis, or even time travel.
The brain is the most powerful organ and weapon of humans. It functions like a sophisticated command center, coordinating the activities of various parts of the body, allowing this complex “machine” of humanity to operate perfectly. At the same time, the brain provides humans with remarkable thinking, innovation, and creativity capabilities.
The achievements of human civilization are largely due to the brain. There is a widely circulated saying that we only use 10% of our brain’s potential. This implies that 90% of the brain remains dormant and awaits development. Even a genius like Einstein reportedly utilized only about 15% of his brain’s capabilities. It is evident that even for a “scientific giant” like him, the brain’s potential remains largely untapped. So what would happen to humanity if we could fully develop and exploit the brain’s potential? Would it transcend beyond ordinary limits?
The brain is the most powerful organ and weapon of humans.
The claim that “humans only use 10% of their brains” may have originated in the late 19th century, but its specific source remains highly debated. This perspective may stem from misunderstandings or overly simplistic descriptions of brain function by some scientists and psychologists.
For instance, the renowned psychologist William James once noted that we only develop a small portion of our brain’s potential. This idea has been widely propagated in popular culture, becoming a common phrase to inspire people to recognize their potential. However, James’s original intent was not to imply the physical usage of the brain but to emphasize that human potential has not yet been fully realized.
Modern neuroscience research has clearly debunked the claim of “using only 10% of the brain.” Neuroscientist Barry Gordon pointed out: “We actually use most parts of the brain, and almost all components of the brain are active all the time.” Modern brain imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography and functional magnetic resonance imaging have demonstrated that the brain exhibits a certain level of activity even while sleeping.
Recent studies show that each part of the brain performs a specific function, whether it be processing visual information, coordinating movements, or executing complex thought activities. Even at rest, the brain continues to engage in numerous information processing tasks and maintains various basic life functions.
Modern scientists have debunked the claim that humans only “use 10% of their brains”.
Notably, while the brain constitutes only 2% of total body weight, it consumes about 20% of the body’s energy. This phenomenon contradicts the assertion that only 10% of the brain is utilized. If 90% of the brain were inactive, those regions would have certainly atrophied and disappeared during the evolutionary process. Therefore, it is impossible for any organ to be used only 10%.
If the brain actually contained 90% unused regions, then minor brain injuries would not lead to significant consequences. However, this is not the case. A large body of evidence also shows that even small damage to any part of the brain can result in serious consequences. This evidence indicates that we utilize nearly every part of the brain.
Over the past 2 million years, the human brain has nearly tripled in size. This dramatic change has provided us with unprecedented abilities to think, plan, and make decisions. However, scientists indicate that the growth of brain size is not without limits.
Modern research has discovered that the size of the modern human brain has actually decreased by about 10% compared to the Stone Age. This finding has overturned long-held beliefs. Scientists believe that this may be a reason behind the increasing complexity of human society. With the development of collective intelligence, the demand for individual brain capacity may lessen.
Although the brain comprises only 2% of body weight, it consumes up to 20% of energy. This high energy requirement limits unlimited growth in brain size. A larger brain requires more energy, which may conflict with the energy demands of the rest of the body. Therefore, unlimited growth in brain size is impractical in the evolutionary process.
The size of the modern human brain has decreased by about 10% compared to the Stone Age.
While the brain may no longer grow in size, there are still many opportunities to enhance the complexity and efficiency of its functions. For instance, the increasingly complex neural networks in the brain could be key to improving intelligence. Research shows that the shape of the brain may have a greater impact on its function than the complexity of neural connections. This means that future developments in the human brain could be reflected more in optimizing and fine-tuning functions rather than merely increasing volume.
With the advancement of science and technology, we hope to “upgrade” the brain through neuroscience and biotechnology methods to improve processing speed and efficiency. For example, through neural interface technology, we may enhance memory or learning abilities. In the future, humans may no longer rely solely on natural evolutionary processes but could achieve rapid breakthroughs in brain function through technological means. As science progresses, we anticipate uncovering deeper secrets of the brain and ushering in a new era of intelligence.
In science fiction, using 100% of the brain is often associated with superpowers. Lucy, the protagonist in the film “Lucy,” inadvertently uses a drug to stimulate her brain’s potential, eventually reaching 100% brain utilization and acquiring superpowers such as telepathy and levitation. This description, while captivating, is far from reality.
Each brain region has a specific function, and the brain operates in both awake and asleep states.
Scientific research shows that humans use most parts of the brain in daily life. Each region of the brain has its specific function, and the brain operates in both awake and asleep states. Although we may not acquire superpowers by using 100% of our brain as depicted in science fiction films, scientists are striving to unlock the brain’s potential. Neuroscience research has revealed six fundamental principles of innovative thinking that help us leverage existing but inactive resources and create new internal connections and hypotheses that encourage us to learn from others, thereby generating new ideas.
Scientists have also discovered a phenomenon known as “neuroplasticity,” the brain’s ability to change and adapt. This means that with proper training and stimulation, we can improve the effectiveness and function of our brains. New research shows that the shape of the brain may have a significantly greater impact on how we think, feel, and behave compared to its complex neural connections.
Overall, the human brain is an inspiring marvel, with potential that far exceeds our imagination. While we may not possess superpowers like those seen in science fiction, through continuous learning and training, we can elevate our brains to higher potentials. The evolution of the brain in the future will not only be a biological change but also a product of cultural and technological progress.
