When I was 10 years old, a cousin of mine took me on a tour of his medical school. And as a special treat, he took me to the pathology lab and took a real human brain out of the jar and placed it in my hands. And there it was, the seat of human consciousness, the powerhouse of the human body, sitting in my hands.

Aditi Shankardass’s quote reflects a deeply formative moment in her life, where she experienced a tangible connection with the human brain, the seat of human consciousness. At the age of 10, her cousin, who was a medical student, took her on a tour of his medical school, where she was given the extraordinary opportunity to hold a real human brain. This experience served as a powerful reminder of the brain’s role as the powerhouse of the human body, sparking an early interest in the complexities of the human mind and neuroscience.

Shankardass’s description of holding the brain emphasizes the awe and reverence that comes with handling such a critical organ. By referring to it as “the seat of human consciousness,” she acknowledges the profound mystery and importance of the brain in defining who we are as individuals and as a species. The moment of holding the brain is not just a medical experience, but also an existential one, highlighting the way the brain ties into our very sense of identity and awareness.

The origin of this quote lies in Shankardass’s personal experience of encountering the human brain at such a young age. It’s likely that this experience had a lasting impact, shaping her later work as a neuropsychologist and researcher in the field of cognitive science. Her fascination with the brain and its functions seems to have been sparked by this pivotal moment, where the scientific and philosophical aspects of the human mind intersected.

Ultimately, Shankardass’s quote underscores the awe and mystery surrounding the human brain. It serves as a reminder of the complexity and intricacy of the organ that governs not just our physical actions but our very thoughts, emotions, and consciousness. Holding the brain as a child was a transformative experience that inspired a lifelong curiosity about the mind and its role in defining our humanity.