Phineas Gage and Brain Specialization

The video explores the story of Phineas Gage, who survived a severe brain injury in 1848. Despite myths about his personality changes, Gage's case provided insights into brain specialization. His recovery challenged phrenology and highlighted the brain's resilience. Modern studies suggest damage to his left frontal lobe, affecting decision-making and emotional processing. Gage's life post-accident, including work in Chile, demonstrates his ability to function in society, debunking exaggerated tales of his decline.

What was the unusual aspect of Phineas Gage's accident that drew attention from psychologists?

• He had a photographic memory.

• He survived an iron rod passing through his brain.

• He was the first person to undergo brain surgery.

• He survived a lightning strike.

What was Phineas Gage doing when the accident occurred?

• Laying railroad tracks

• Performing in a circus

• Working in a factory

• Driving a carriage

Which of the following is a myth about Phineas Gage's life after the accident?

• He was intellectually impaired.

• He never worked again.

• He worked as a carriage driver in Chile.

• He became a circus attraction.

What was one of the reasons myths about Gage's life spread?

• He traveled extensively.

• He wrote a book about his experiences.

• His case was mixed up with other brain damage cases.

• He was a famous actor.

How did Phineas Gage's case contribute to the debate on brain specialization?

• It proved that the brain is not specialized.

• It confirmed the ideas of phrenologists.

• It showed that brain specialization was a myth.

• It was used to argue against phrenology.

What did phrenologists incorrectly believe about Gage's injury?

• It affected his ability to walk.

• It damaged the part of the brain responsible for benevolence.

• It improved his cognitive abilities.

• It had no impact on his personality.

What modern technique was used to study Gage's skull?

• CT scanning

• X-ray imaging

• 3D modeling

• MRI scanning

Which part of Gage's brain was primarily damaged according to modern studies?

• Parietal lobe

• Occipital lobe

• Left frontal lobe

• Right temporal lobe

What type of brain matter was mostly affected in Gage's injury?

• Cerebellum

• Gray matter

• White matter

• Brainstem

What does Gage's case remind us about the human brain?

• It cannot recover from any injury.

• It is resilient and capable of recovery.

• It is fragile and easily damaged.

• It is fully understood by scientists.