The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science

Globalization begins with the lowering of the threshold at which pleasure receptors fire in the septal region of the brain, which leads to the release of dopamine. This neurological (plastic) change helps one feel positive, reducing negative emotions and aiding in learning new tasks—often due to falling in love.

Localizationism dictates the brain is separated into different, fixed areas, each in charge of processing specific information. Until the 1960s, this theory developed to have a rigid understanding of the brain structure and assumed permanent damage to one area meant its processes were lost. The theory has since been disproven and replaced by neuroplasticity.

Neuroplasticity, a combination of the words neurology (brain-related) and plasticity (malleable), is the belief that the brain is capable of change if exercised properly. The discovery of neuroplasticity led to significant advances in science, most notably the development of treatment for previously incurable conditions, such as motor paralysis from head injuries.

The plastic paradox is fundamental to The Brain That Changes Itself. Neuroplasticity allows people to both change their brains and produce rigid behaviors. The brain starts with plastic potential, but when behaviors are reinforced through repetition, this flexibility paradoxically shapes the brain into a pattern. This is because the plastic brain seeks to execute repetitive tasks more efficiently. This is why ingrained habits are difficult to unlearn, even though the brain is capable of flexibility.