Psychological myth buster: Do we really only use 10% of our brain?

Abstract

The origins of the 10% myth are elusive. There are many early scientists (e.g., Albert Einstein, Pierre Flourens), philosophers (e.g., William James), writers (e.g., Dale Carnegie) and psychologists (e.g., Karl Lashley) who inadvertently contributed to the evolution and popularization of this myth. The 10% myth is attractive to us for many reasons; it opens up a world of unknown possibilities that are both mysterious and exciting and gives us hope for improving our quality of life. In fact, if any part of the brain was removed or inactive, there would be noticeable and lasting behavioural and cognitive effects. Our brains are complex machines that require all parts to be in working order for typical healthy functioning.