Submitted by Parking_Tale7916 t3_10pykw6 in explainlikeimfive
CyraFen t1_j6mtnuc wrote
all voluntary and sensory abilities are controlled and/or processed by the brain, as well as certain involuntary actions like consciousness, sleep, and breathing. because of the last bit, technically everything needs the brain because breathing provides oxygen, which is needed to produce energy for all cells to function.
certain involuntary actions don't necessarily require the brain though, like the beating of your heart, which has its own electrical system that lets it keep beating without input from the brain. however, the brain does regulate and modify it when necessary, like when you're scared and your heart rate goes up. there's probably a few more that i can't think of off the top of my head, but short answer is pretty much everything.
Lithuim t1_j6mxsex wrote
A lot of the digestive system is also automated, although it too can be overruled by the brain.
GalFisk t1_j6n0iwv wrote
Reflexes are controlled by local nerves and muscles. Some biochemistry is controlled by hormones made by glands, which affect how cells behave. Some is controlled only by the cells themselves.
Instincts, emotions, thoughts, memory, muscle memory, all voluntary movement is controlled by the brain.
Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments