Human Brain and Computers

The human brain has the potential to process and store a variety of information. Just like the human brain, the computer can also perform a variety of tasks such as mathematical calculations, complex algorithms and storing essential information (Loe & Wang, 2005). It consists of the right and left brain which enables the body to coordinate and perform various tasks. Likewise, the computer consists of different parts such as the processor, disk drives and the motherboard that help in performing various tasks. According to (Feldman & Feigenbaum 2006), the functions of the brain can be simulated on a digital computer in the equivalent sense in which the behavior of the New York stock market, the weather systems, or the pattern of airline flights over Latin America can.

The human brains consist of neurons which can either be “on” or “off” that help in the transformation of information. Equally, the computer consists of a binary system which transmits signals and enhancing internal communications between different components. In terms of memory capacity, the human brain is also known to grow by stronger synaptic connections and, similarly, the computer memory has the potential to be enlarged by adding computer chips (Feldman & Feigenbaum 2006).

In regard to information storage, the mechanism that is behind information storage is called Long-term potentiating. It involves microscopic chemical adjustments at the synapses that connect neurons to each other. The changes involve the removal of neuro-ceptor units which determine the strength of the signal transmission of any given synapse Richard et al,(2009). The human brain stores information by making adjustments to its neural networks. It grows new dendrites and forms new synapses. Short term memory can be represented by circulating signal feedback loops.

Although technology has revolutionized the world, over reliance of computers hinders the brain from growing. According to Dennett (2008),over reliance on computers, especially for students can lead to long term health issues associated with the brain. This will prevent them from developing into well rounded individuals. When people rely so much on using computers in doing everything, the brain always does to “sleep”. Loe & Wang (2005) argues that, for a human being to have a healthy lifestyle, the brain must be active. However, over relying so much on the computer will hinder the neurons from developing and affect the transmission of information. Furthermore, when the brain is not active, the synaptic connections will not be strong enough to ensure proper functioning of the entire body.

Although over reliance on computers is not appropriate for the brain, we should not entirely shy away from them. Human beings should strike equilibrium between using the computer and making the brain active. Computers should only be used to solve complex issues that require electronic manipulation (Dixit, 2010). Otherwise, the human brain should be actively engaged at all times.