Nervous System : The Classical World

Introduction

The Nervous System is often compared to a highly intricate computer with a system of wires to perform its various functions, mainly sending and receiving messages. The nerves, composed of millions of neurons, are the wires that connect the brain to all parts of the body. The sensory, or afferent, nerves bring information to the brain for it to interpret, and the motor, or efferent, nerves relay commands from the brain to the various organs and muscles.

The Central Nervous System (CNS) is the brain and spinal cord. It is the control center for all activities of the body, both physical and mental. Hence psychiatric and psychoanalytical terms are associated with this system.

The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) is composed of the nerves that link the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. CNS and PNS control striated or voluntary muscle function.

The Automatic Nervous System (ANS) controls smooth, or involuntary, muscle movement.

The Nervous System works closely with the Endocrine System to produce and maintain Homeostasis – the state of dynamic equilibrium within the body, when everything is functioning as it should. It is no coincidence that the brain’s control panel, the hypothalamus, and the Endocrine System’s master gland, the hypophysis or pituitary, are located together.