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A journalist claims that the right side of the brain is more creative than the left. This claim is likely:

User Dan Allan
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Final answer:

The concept that the right brain is more creative than the left is a myth. Brain functions like language are distributed globally, not confined to one hemisphere, and research shows that both hemispheres work together. Neuroscientific evidence does not support the simplistic division of 'right-brained' and 'left-brained' personalities.

Step-by-step explanation:

The claim that the right side of the brain is more creative than the left is a simplification of brain function and largely a myth. Studies have shown there is some lateralization of function; the left brain is generally involved in language functions, while the right brain is associated with spatial and nonverbal reasoning. However, these functions are not exclusive to one hemisphere, and many cognitive functions such as language are distributed throughout the cerebrum.

Research from split-brain studies has contributed to this misconception, as sectioning the corpus callosum can lead to difficulties in verbal responses when sensory information is processed by the right hemisphere. Furthermore, although Gazzaniga's research indicates some hemispheric dominance in certain cognitive functions, the results have been inconsistent. It is important to understand that the two hemispheres work together, and attributing certain behaviors to one hemisphere is overly simplistic.

Damage to the brain can also disrupt language functions. For example, damage to the right hemisphere can affect the understanding of figurative language and nonverbal aspects of communication. It's clear that the concept of right-brained or left-brained personalities is not supported by neuroscientific evidence.

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