Neurologists and biological psychologists have witnessed a sharp increase in the knowledge
and understanding of particular structures of the brain over the past two decades. As technology
becomes ever more advanced, sc
...
Neurologists and biological psychologists have witnessed a sharp increase in the knowledge
and understanding of particular structures of the brain over the past two decades. As technology
becomes ever more advanced, scientists are able to isolate the functions of even small regions of
the human brain. One noteworthy discovery is the role of the amygdala in human fear and
aggression. The amygdala, a small, almond-shaped conglomerate, is just one part of the limbic
system. Located at the very center of the brain, the limbic system is the core of our 'emotional
brain;' each individual structure in the limbic system is somehow connected to an aspect of
human emotion. Scientists have found that electrode stimulation of the amygdala can elicit
extreme and aggressive acts. Patients or experimental subjects who experience this utter rage
and fearlessness have no rational foundation for their reaction. In other words, this aggression is
wholly attributable to electrode stimulation. On the other hand, patients with trauma or damage
to this structure exhibit a complete absence of aggression. Researchers find that no amount of
poking, prodding or harassment will evoke even remotely aggressive responses from these
subjects.
1. The author suggests that persistent passivity and imperturbability may be a direct
result of which of the following?
A. Drug-induced stimulation of the amygdala.
B. A stroke that resulted in severe tissue damage in the limbic system
C. Encephalitis as a result of head trauma
D. Activation of a strategically implanted electrode in a patient’s amygdala.
2. Which statement is not listed as a detail within the passage?
A. Electrode stimulation of the amygdala can elicit extreme aggressive acts.
B. Scientists are able to isolate the functions of even small regions of the human brain.
C. Typically, temperamental rhesus monkeys with amygdala damage are completely
imperturbable.
D. Subjects who experience this utter rage and fearlessness have no rational foundation for
their
reaction.
3. What is the main idea of the passage
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