Phrenology is the detailed study of the shape and size of
the cranium as a supposed indication of character and mental abilities. Franz Gall brought about this study and
believed that certain parts of the skull held certain characteristics, such as
friendship, imitation, hope, and wit.
His theory was originally thought to be accurate, partially because it
was very difficult to prove wrong. Although
his theory has many flaws, I find the idea of certain components defining one's
character to be rather intriguing. If
phrenology was entirely accurate, phrenologists could determine a person's
personality simply by looking at their skull which would be an amazing aid to
society. Unfortunately, it may have
brought about the idea judging one another based on physical characteristics.
However, I think
that Gall's erroneous theory of phrenology helped pave the way for the further
understanding of the brain. From Gall
came a deeper interest into what the brain was all about which, in turn,
brought about the Computed Tomography Scan, the Positron Emission Tomography
Scan, and the Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan. With brain scans, neuroscientists now have the
ability to create brain maps and to discover the function of each brain
part. Without Gall, I do not believe
that we would have all the information about the brain and its individual functions
that we have now.
Nick,
ReplyDeleteI too found it very captivating learning about the early theory of phrenology. Weird how we started off from judging a person's brain size by how their skull looks, to what we have advanced into today. You made a good point on how phrenology would have caused people to judge one another based on their characteristics. I wonder if people went around judging others skulls when this was an accepted theory back in the day?
Nick,
ReplyDeleteI also found it baffling to learn of such an interesting level of science. It's astonishing that something as false of a science as phrenology can actually present more roads to discovery of the actual functions of the brain
Nick,
ReplyDeleteI agree that for Gall, despite his discredited theories in phrenology, helped to advance knowledge in the field of psychology. People like him show that people should always question each others theories and erroneous beliefs mean advancements, especially in the scientific world.
Nick, I believe Nick is correct by saying that it lead to many discoveries. This provides of an example of the importance of starting somewhere when trying to find knowledge. Falsehoods reveal truths.
ReplyDeleteNick,
ReplyDeleteI also found phrenology extremely intriguing! I believe that sometimes the only way to get on the right path, is to follow the wrong one first. If humans never took the chance to be wrong, we would be far less advanced in society than we are today.
Skilly J,
ReplyDeleteYour comments on the false nature of phrenology I completely agree with. Splendid job on incorporating how mapping of the brain has led to a new dawn for the idea of phrenology too. It shows how forgotten ideas can be revitalized.