Posted by Rune on October 10, 1999 at 11:33:29:
In Reply to: Mind over Matter posted by Dr. Chaos on October 10, 1999 at 00:14:11:
I read an article in Skeptical Inquirer about this very myth. It was a while ago so I'll try to remember some of it. The statement was coined by some guy wanting to sell his "mind enhancement program". Rcpman was right, a comparison was made with the human muscular system. We don't use all of our muscles at the same time, yet no one suggests that we only use 10% of our muscles ever, we use different muscles at different times. Its not like our brain has 10 comparments and only one has a light bulb on. Think of those areas that control breathing, liver function, sight etc. aren't they working at 100%? If we are talking on the phone and watching TV at the same time, then neurons are firing to accomodate both of those activities as compared to watching TV alone. Maybe the 10% refers to memory, but we recall many varied things at odd times, who's to say what percentage is being recalled? Anyway, it seems to be one of those popular, but uninformed, (and nor very useful) things to quote. I used to be guilty of it, too.
: I know this is a strange question to ask, but can't resist. I know from pyschology class, that normally humans use a mere 10% of their brains; leaving the other 90% unused. I'm interested to know what everyone thinks might happen, if we were able to unlock the other 90% and use it. I'm also curious to know, since Scientific Pantheism focuses a lot on Science, if anyone knows if psychologists or biologists have any idea of how to do so?
: I'm also curious to know, how it would affect Scientific Pantheism if it were possible. I'm open to just about any revelant and constructive comments or opinions.