The Neurological Roots of Genius

Smarter brains tend to be bigger—at least in certain locations. Researchers have fingered parts of the parietal and frontal lobes as well as a structure called the anterior cingulate as important for superior cognition.

clipped from www.sciam.com Researchers are finding clues to the basis of brilliance in the brain Key Concepts Smarter brains tend to be bigger—at least in certain locations. Researchers have fingered parts of the parietal and frontal lobes as well as a structure called the anterior cingulate as important for superior cognition. Some studies suggest that the brains of brighter people use less energy to solve certain problems than those of people with lower aptitudes do. But under certain circumstances, scientists have also observed higher neuronal power consumption in individuals with superior mental capacities. People often overestimate the importance of intellectual ability. Practice and perseverance contribute more to accomplishment than being smart does.