Humans have evolved to have up to 150 stable, meaningful relationships at a time (the growth of the neocortex is likely responsible). 150 is also the approximately optimal size for a human community. Humans can remember important information of up to 150 group members (such as which are likely cheaters and which are most likely to return a favor). Early tribes often splintered into different sects shortly after suprassing 150 members.

Rule of 150

Most recently evolved part of the mammalian brain. It is responsible for problem-solving, self-control, self-awareness, conscious thought, and language. Robin Dunbar found a strong correlation between a species group size and the size of their neocortex.

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

The cerebral cortex is the uneven outer surface of the brain, characterized by a distinctive pattern of raised bumps or folds (gyri) and depressions or grooves (sulci). It is associated with higher-level cognitive processes, including consciousness, thought, emotion, reasoning, language, and memory.

Cerebral Cortex

Aronson, Elliot, and Joshua Aronson. The Social Animal. Worth Publishers, Macmillan Learning, 2018.

The Social Animal

The cerebral cortex is divided into four primary lobes: the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe.

Lobes in the Cerebral Cortex

Neocortex

Cingulate Cortex

The lateral sulcus is a prominent sulcus that separates the frontal and parietal lobe from the temporal lobe. 

The lateral sulcus ( lateral fissure or Sylvian fissure) 

Sulci (singular: sulcus) are the distinctive grooves or depressions found on the uneven exterior surface of the cerebral cortex, situated between the raised folds or bumps.

Sulci

An architect is designing a new building. This complex task requires them to visualize the structure in three dimensions, solve spatial problems, formulate a creative vision, and communicate their ideas through language and drawings. Which part of the brain, known as the center for higher-level cognitive processes, is most predominantly engaged during these activities?

Gyri (singular: gyrus) are the distinctive folds, bumps, or ridges that characterize the highly uneven surface of the cerebral cortex.

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