With a finite number of brain cells, we have a finite number of permutation how the cells are connected. Is it possible to ever find 2 brains with their neurons connected the same way and hence, think the same way?
2006-07-27 07:33:40 · 6 answers · asked by Kang 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
With a finite number of brain cells, we have a finite number of permutation how the cells are connected. Hence, shouldn't there be only a finite number of unique "brain configurations"? Isn't it then possible to find 2 brains with their neurons connected the same way and hence, think the same way?
2006-07-27 15:06:36 · update #1
In principle, yes. But there are 100 billion neurons and an average of 1000 functional connections between them. More if you count the Cerebellum (on average 10,000).
You do the math. There are (many) more potential combinations than atoms in the universe.
So it comes down to probability. But it is extremely unlikely to ever happen.
Even if you consider cloning and identical twins, since most of the connections derive from environment (there is not enough information content in the DNA to disambiguate all possible connections).
Moreover, even if the connections are the same, synaptic strength, etc. might not.
So there.
Interesting question, though.
2006-07-27 17:45:20 · answer #1 · answered by Ejsenstejn 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Finite, yes, but that number is variously estimated at 10-100 billion (10^10 to 10^11) neurons and roughly 10^4 connections each. That's a lot of possible combinations.
You also have to consider epigenetic factors such as the configuration of dendritic spines, number and placement of receptors, amount of neurotransmitter released in a quantum from each chemical synapse, and when all is said and done, each brain is unique.
2006-07-27 16:49:35 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I doubt it because the brain is not only affected by genetics/biology, but is also influenced by the environment. If two identical twins grew up in different households, would you expect their brains to be exactly the same? While there are instances of many similarities between identical twins in such a situation, I doubt they are identical.
2006-07-27 07:39:02 · answer #3 · answered by Spex 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Even matching 2 thumb prints is not possible. So matching the brain is virtually impossible
2006-07-27 07:36:40 · answer #4 · answered by Dr M 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Identical twins might have the exact same brains.
2006-07-27 07:38:44 · answer #5 · answered by Bob 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
cloning, I'd hate to think there's another poor person out there with the same brain as mine!
2006-07-27 07:37:04 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋