Our brains are magnificent, mysterious, and misunderstood. For centuries, we’ve been captivated by their complexity and drawn to explain how this grey mass of neurons and synapses governs our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Yet, as neuroscience advances, it is becoming clear that many popular beliefs about the brain are far from accurate.
This article will explore some of the most pervasive myths surrounding the brain, unpack why they persist, and highlight what modern psychology and neuroscience reveal about the true nature of our minds.
The 10% Myth: A Persistent Misunderstanding
Perhaps the most well-known myth about the brain is the idea that we use only 10% of it. This notion, perpetuated by motivational speakers, Hollywood films, and even some educators, suggests untapped potential waiting to be unlocked. But is there any truth to it?
Not quite. Brain imaging studies, such as those using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, demonstrate that no part of the brain is completely inactive. Even during rest, the brain’s default mode network is hard at work, processing memories, planning for the future, and maintaining bodily functions. The misconception likely stems from early neuroscientific research, where scientists noted that only specific regions of the brain seemed to "light up" during certain tasks. However, this does not mean the rest of the brain was dormant; it simply wasn’t the primary area activated for that specific function.
Far from being underutilised, the brain is a remarkably energy-intensive organ. Despite accounting for only about 2% of body weight, it consumes roughly 20% of our energy. Every region has a role, whether in regulating emotions, interpreting sensory input, or coordinating movement. So, the next time someone mentions the 10% myth, you can confidently debunk it—and marvel at the brain’s full-time workload.
Left-Brain vs. Right-Brain: Are We Really Split?
Another popular misconception is the idea that people are either “left-brained” (logical and analytical) or “right-brained” (creative and intuitive). This dichotomy, often used to categorise personality traits, has its roots in legitimate neuroscience but has been vastly oversimplified.
The origins of this myth lie in research from the 1960s, particularly studies on patients who had undergone split-brain surgery to treat epilepsy. These studies revealed that the brain’s hemispheres have specialised functions: the left is more involved in language and analytical tasks, while the right excels in spatial reasoning and recognising patterns. However, these findings have been misinterpreted to suggest that individuals predominantly use one hemisphere over the other.
In reality, the two hemispheres are deeply interconnected. The corpus callosum, a thick bundle of nerve fibres, facilitates constant communication between them. Everyday activities—from solving a mathematical problem to painting a picture—require cooperation between both sides of the brain. For instance, while the left hemisphere might process the technical aspects of a musical piece, the right hemisphere contributes emotional resonance.
This holistic view of the brain underscores the importance of integration. Instead of pigeonholing ourselves as “left-brained” or “right-brained,” we should celebrate the synergy that enables our remarkable cognitive abilities.
Memory: A Faulty Recorder
We often think of memory as a perfect archive, storing life’s events exactly as they occurred. But memories are not static recordings—they are dynamic reconstructions, shaped by emotions, context, and time. This understanding challenges the common belief that memory is infallible and that forgetting is a sign of failure.
Research in cognitive psychology shows that our memories are prone to distortion. Factors such as stress, suggestion, and bias can all influence how we recall events. The misinformation effect, a phenomenon extensively studied by psychologist Elizabeth Loftus, demonstrates how false details introduced after an event can alter a person’s recollection. For example, participants in her studies who were asked leading questions about a car accident often misremembered details like the speed of the vehicles or the presence of broken glass.
Forgetting, rather than being a flaw, is an essential feature of memory. The brain prioritises information based on relevance and emotional significance, discarding what it deems unnecessary. This selective retention allows us to focus on what truly matters, rather than being overwhelmed by a flood of trivial details.
Understanding memory’s malleability has profound implications. It teaches us to approach our recollections with humility and recognise the potential for error. It also highlights the importance of critical thinking, especially in situations where eyewitness testimony or personal bias may come into play.
Neuroplasticity: The Brain’s Lifelong Adaptability
One of the most exciting revelations in neuroscience is the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself throughout life. This challenges the outdated notion that the brain becomes fixed after a certain age, with little capacity for change.
Neuroplasticity underpins learning, recovery, and personal growth. Whether mastering a new skill, recovering from a stroke, or overcoming trauma, the brain’s ability to form new connections is at the heart of these processes. For example, studies on musicians show that practising an instrument strengthens neural pathways associated with motor skills, coordination, and auditory processing. Similarly, mindfulness meditation has been linked to increased grey matter density in areas related to emotional regulation and attention.
This adaptability is not without limits. The brain’s capacity for change diminishes with age, and some damage—such as that caused by degenerative diseases—can be irreversible. However, understanding neuroplasticity empowers us to take proactive steps in maintaining cognitive health. Engaging in lifelong learning, staying physically active, and fostering social connections are all ways to keep the brain resilient.
Why Do These Myths Persist?
Despite the wealth of scientific evidence debunking these myths, they remain deeply ingrained in popular culture. Why? Part of the answer lies in their simplicity and appeal. The 10% myth, for example, offers a tantalising promise of untapped potential, while the left-brain/right-brain narrative provides a neat framework for understanding personality.
Media and entertainment also play a role in perpetuating these misconceptions. Films like Lucy and Limitless dramatise the idea of unlocking hidden brainpower, while self-help books and workshops often latch onto oversimplified neuroscience to sell their ideas. Additionally, our brains are wired to seek patterns and narratives, making us susceptible to ideas that resonate intuitively, even if they lack scientific backing.
Embracing the Complexity of the Brain
Rather than clinging to myths, let us embrace the complexity and wonder of the brain. Its 86 billion neurons form a dynamic network that underpins everything from our simplest habits to our most profound thoughts. By understanding the nuances of how the brain works, we can approach life with greater curiosity and appreciation.
For educators, this means designing teaching methods that align with how the brain learns best—through repetition, engagement, and meaningful connections. For policymakers, it involves funding research that deepens our understanding of the mind and supports mental health initiatives. And for each of us, it means cultivating habits that nurture our cognitive and emotional well-being.
The brain is not a static machine or a neatly divided organ—it is a living, evolving masterpiece. Dispelling myths about it is not just an academic exercise but a step toward understanding ourselves more fully. As science continues to illuminate the brain’s intricacies, let us celebrate its brilliance and strive to unlock its potential in ways grounded in truth, not fiction.