The brain perceives and understands in patterns from "summary" of Brain Rules (Updated and Expanded) by John Medina
Patterns are the language of the brain. They are the foundation upon which understanding is built. When we encounter new information, our brain automatically looks for patterns to make sense of it. It does this by comparing the new information to existing patterns stored in our memory. This process happens in a fraction of a second, allowing us to quickly comprehend and react to our surroundings. This ability to perceive and understand in patterns is crucial for our survival. For example, when we see a red, octagonal sign with the letters "STOP" on it, we immediately recognize it as a symbol for halting our vehicle. This is because our brain has stored the pattern of this sign and its meaning in our memory. We don't need to relearn what the sign means each time we encounter it - our brain simply retrieves the pattern and we act accordingly. Patterns also help us make predictions about the future based on past experiences. For instance, if we see dark clouds forming in the sky, we may predict that it will rain soon. This prediction is based on the pattern recognition that we have developed over time - dark clouds often precede rain. By relying on patterns, our brain can anticipate events and prepare us for what may come. Moreover, patterns provide a sense of order and predictability in our chaotic world. They help us make sense of the vast amounts of information that bombard us daily. By organizing information into patterns, our brain can process and store it more efficiently, making it easier for us to retrieve and use later on.- The brain is a pattern-seeking organ. It thrives on identifying, categorizing, and utilizing patterns to navigate the complexities of life. By understanding how our brain perceives and understands in patterns, we can harness this innate ability to learn, adapt, and thrive in our ever-changing environment.
