10 Interesting Things The Big Bang Theory Taught Us About Science

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2. A Unique Method For Problem Solving

Within the same episode previously mentioned Sheldon also speaks of a second neurobiological phenomenon. In attempting to open his mind to the solution he cannot seem to grasp he decides to spend his time doing menial tasks. How does that work? Well, as Sheldon states, when one's basal ganglia are occupied with a routine task the prefrontal cortex is free to work in the background. There's actually quite a bit of truth to this statement, and an algorithm known as the Prefrontal Cortex Basal Ganglia Working Memory Algorithm exists. Different structures of the brain are utilized for different acts. The basal ganglia are directly related to involuntary movement and procedural learning. The prefrontal cortex relates to executive functions. When the two are thought of in this way it makes sense that by keeping one's basal ganglia occupied the rest of the brain would, in a way, be rested and available for further work.