The computer and the brain are similar and function alike. For example, if you download something to your computer, it is just the same as the brain downloading new information during lessons in class. The same thing goes with uploading a file or an image from the computer to the internet; your brain does the same thing by uploading something you learned in class and projecting it on a piece of paper. Of course, even the world’s most powerful supercomputer cannot rival a human brain. Remember, the brain surpasses the computer. With the advancement in robotic technologies, the brain will soon create near-human computers.
Similarities Between The Computer And The Brain
1. The computer and the brain store and process information. Also useful in running tasks. Mathematical calculations, carrying out complex algorithms and storing of crucial information are jobs done by the brain and computer. Although, the computer outshines the brain in this.
2. Both play extremely important roles in society, commerce, entertainment, and science. Every living creature survives by quick thinking and reflexes, that includes us. The computer today plays the most important roles from specialized systems controlling entire production factories to little “fuzzy logic” chips in washing machines that intelligently monitor the washing process. In the entertainment industry, the brains work hand in hand with the computer. Almost in all the tasks.
3. Both work by combining the processes of several components and parts to perform their tasks. A computer consists of many parts, including a motherboard, the disk drives, the RAM, the processor, graphics cards and many more. These work together to achieve an outcome. Like a computer, there are many parts of the brain. Besides having the left and right brain, there are also parts of the brain that take care of emotions, mathematical calculations, body co-ordinations and many other tasks needed for our daily activities.
4. Both work by transmitting “logic signals” to each of their parts. Signals are both electrical. A computer works by using binary (“on”/”off” logical signals known as “bits”, put together as “bytes” to represent data.) This is useful to communicate internally between components, represent information and store data. Similarly, neurons in the brain are either “on” or “off” by either firing an action potential or not firing an action potential.
5. Both can increase their memory storage capacity. Computer memory grows by adding computer chips/external hard drives/ pre-installed hard drives. Memories in the brain grow by stronger synaptic connections.
6. Both computers and brain have repair and “backup” systems. The brain has “built-in backup systems” in some cases. If one pathway in the brain is damaged, there is often another pathway that will take over this function of the damaged pathway. Similar to a computer, where backup files can be stored on the computer.
7. Both can degrade. Computers break down and brain cells deteriorate. Like all machines, computers break down with time. Brain cells deteriorate with age, losing their functions and slowing down because of lower counts of chemicals and hormones in the body.
