Chapter 3: The Brontes, the Z-Boys, and the Renaissance
Chapter Summary
The myelinization of our neurological system is in control of our entire skill set. A lot of theories have been passed around about "genius," and they generally fall apart under close scrutiny. We always hear stories of someone who somehow was magically born with a gift and used it to influence people. Prime examples are the Bronte siblings. Rumors and myth about their lives and writings were rampant, but in actuality, they practiced writing in a minimal risk environment where their mistakes were recognized and systematically corrected. The phenomenal growth of "genius" in the Renaissance, despite other theories, can clearly be explained through myelin. The apprenticeship practice, where a young boy (7-10) would be taken on by a craftsmen, and for the next 5-10 years would work within a system of a master who expected the best possible work, and strove to refine technique in a skill set. This provides for myelinization of the circuits that arer most desired in the profession. Our genes are hardwired to do this, making us "myelin beings." The human potential is to choose skills or actions, and perform them until we can do them effortlessly. The more we deep practice the way we want to perform, the more natural that performance becomes, thanks to myelin.
Key Concepts
Genius is really just the optimization of myelin insulating neural circuitry through deep practice.
Our genes do not prewire us for certain higher skill sets, but allow us to choose our own through deep practice.
Key Terms
craft guilds
apprentice
Making Connections
Like we've discussed in class, we need to refine the model we have internalized. An apprentice who wouldn't accept instruction would be much less likely to improve.
Like the Z-Boys with their "pool skating" I need to step out of safe zones and risk a little bit.
No comments:
Post a Comment