Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
from dangerous stimuli like fire or sharp objects. Next, these data are
transported via separate pathways in the spine. All pain data are col-
lected in the brain stem. Via the thalamus, the signals are sent to the
insula in the neocortex. The modern pain center is located here, col-
lecting all the data and relating them to other live events.
2.9 SUMMARY
We can distinguish three main functions in the brain, each playing a
role in safety management.
The basic brain senses general risks and helps the body to anticipate
handling dangers.
The basic brain works on a nonconscious level. We cannot
directly experience the output of the basic brain, but we will expe-
rience hunches that tell us what to do and what to avoid.
The basic brain is fast compared to our conscious system. It takes
0.5 second to realize what
s really happening and to start a reac-
tion. In the meantime, the basic brain is preparing our body and
mind.
'
In case of real stress, the basic brain acts even before the other
brain parts can be involved.
The male basic brain has developed three basic ways to deal with
danger: fleeing, fight, and freeze.
Fleeing and fighting are very impulsive: Act first, check later.
The female basic brain stimulates care and share behavior: to
tackle the danger together.
The basic brain is focused on the here and now. It is not a part
that plans behavior. The actual stimuli are important. Neglecting
the total picture leads to biases.
The emotional brain supports us in how to relate to the external
world.
Anxiety is a basic emotion. It is a warning system anticipating
pain.
The perception of risk is based on a specific stimulus that is asso-
ciated with anxiety. This association can be innate, but is usually
learned.
Risk sensitivity warns us of dangerous objects and of unreliable
people.
The herd instinct uses the knowledge of the group, but can also
lead us to collective failure.
