Ep 2. Left vs. Right

In Brain Games season 5 episode 2 titled "Left vs. Right," viewers are taken on a journey through the brain to explore the differences between the left and right hemispheres. From language processing to spatial awareness to creativity, each hemisphere of the brain has unique strengths and weaknesses.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the structure of the brain, including the corpus callosum, the thick band of fibers that connects the two hemispheres. Viewers are introduced to a group of individuals who have undergone surgery to have their corpus callosum severed as a treatment for severe epilepsy. This procedure, known as a corpus callosotomy, is used to prevent the spread of seizures from one side of the brain to the other. The patients are shown completing a series of tasks designed to test the abilities of each hemisphere of the brain independently.

Next, the episode delves into the topic of language processing and lateralization. Language is primarily processed in the left hemisphere of the brain, but the right hemisphere also plays a role in aspects such as prosody (intonation and rhythm). Viewers are shown an experiment in which individuals are asked to repeat a phrase while being shown a visual distraction in either the left or right visual field. Those whose distracting image appears in the right visual field (and therefore processed by the left hemisphere) have an easier time repeating the phrase accurately.

The episode then explores spatial awareness and how it is processed differently in each hemisphere. The left hemisphere is more adept at processing details and identifying objects, while the right hemisphere excels at recognizing spatial relationships and forming a holistic view of the environment. Viewers are shown an experiment in which they must navigate a maze using only their left or right hand. Those who use their left hand (and therefore activate the right hemisphere) perform better on the task.

One of the most interesting segments of the episode explores the concept of creativity and how it is related to hemispheric dominance. While it has long been thought that the right hemisphere is responsible for creativity, recent research suggests that creativity involves both hemispheres working together in a balanced manner. Viewers are shown an experiment in which they are asked to think of as many unusual uses for a common object as possible. Those who engage both hemispheres of the brain (by using both hands or moving their eyes back and forth) come up with more creative ideas.

The episode concludes with a discussion of how the left and right hemispheres of the brain work together in harmony to create a unified sense of self. While each hemisphere has its strengths and weaknesses, they are not meant to work independently of each other. Viewers are encouraged to engage in activities that promote integration between the hemispheres, such as playing musical instruments or learning a new language.

Overall, "Left vs. Right" is a fascinating exploration of the inner workings of the brain and how the left and right hemispheres function differently. The episode is filled with engaging experiments and activities that allow viewers to experience firsthand the unique abilities of each hemisphere. Whether you are a neuroscientist or simply someone interested in the workings of the mind, "Left vs. Right" is an episode of Brain Games that should not be missed.