Understanding Three Prevalent Brain Structural Models to Enhance User Interaction Design
In the realm of design, education, and popular culture, several brain models have gained prominence. Among them are the left-brain/right-brain model, the triune brain model, and the system 1/system 2 model. Let's delve into the scientific basis and accuracy of each model.
The left-brain/right-brain model, often summarised as "left brain = logic, right brain = creativity," originated from early research on hemisphere specialization, particularly the discovery of language's left-lateralization in most people. However, it oversimplifies the brain's function, ignoring its integrative, networked nature.
The triune brain model, popularised by Paul MacLean, divides the brain into three evolutionary layers: reptilian, limbic, and neocortex. This model posits that these layers evolved sequentially and correspond to distinct behavioral functions. However, it is widely regarded as a metaphor rather than an accurate neuroanatomical model and is not used in scientific research.
The system 1/system 2 model, proposed by Daniel Kahneman, suggests two modes of thinking: System 1 (fast, automatic, unconscious) and System 2 (slow, effortful, conscious). It is a useful psychological framework for describing mental processes but does not correspond to specific brain structures or networks.
A summary table provides a concise comparison of these models' basis in neuroscience, scientific accuracy, and usefulness in design.
| Model | Basis in Neuroscience | Scientific Accuracy | Usefulness in Design | |-----------------------|---------------------------|------------------------------|-------------------------------| | Left-Brain/Right-Brain | Some structural asymmetry, esp. language[3] | Oversimplified, not reflective of real brain function[5] | Problematic, encourages stereotypes | | Triune Brain | Evolutionary metaphor | Largely debunked[2] | Inspirational, not scientific | | System 1/System 2 | Behavioral, not anatomical| Good model of mental process, not brain structure | Useful for UX, but not a brain map |
Design professionals should use these models with caution, recognising their limitations as metaphors rather than scientific descriptions of brain organisation. The left-brain/right-brain and triune brain models are oversimplified or outdated concepts that do not align with current neuroscience, while the system 1/system 2 model is a useful psychological framework for describing mental processes but does not correspond to specific brain structures or networks.
Despite their dubious scientific basis, these models can still provide valuable insights for designers. The left-brain/right-brain model offers insights into different aspects of the brain that can be leveraged in design, while the triune brain model is useful in emotional design and user experience design, allowing designers to communicate with users at a level below the conscious to drive experiences and useful decisions.
In conclusion, while these brain models offer interesting perspectives, it is crucial to approach them with a critical eye, understanding their limitations and using them as tools for inspiration rather than scientific descriptions of brain organisation.
In the domain of user experience (UX) and education-and-self-development, the left-brain/right-brain model may still provide insights, even though it oversimplifies the brain's function and is not reflective of real brain organization (according to current neuroscience). This model can be leveraged in design to grasp various aspects of the brain.
Meanwhile, the science of technology has debunked the triune brain model as an outdated and largely inaccurate neuroanatomical model, yet it remains inspirational for designers in emotional design and user experience (UX) contexts, as it allows them to communicate deeply with users subconsciously, driving user experiences and decisions.
