Have you ever realized that the brain and a computer have nearly similar functions? 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 onto a piece of paper. For example, your brain downloads an image when you see something, and then uploads it by you drawing a picture of something you have seen. Of course even the world's most powerful supercomputer cannot rival a human brain, but these are some examples of the similarities between man and machine that can be identified. Probably in the future, where humans have developed some high technology will they be able to create near-human computers.
Here are some other similarities between the computer and the brain:
Functions and Purpose
Both are used for storage of information, to process information and to run tasks.
Functions: Both are used for mathematical calculations, carrying out complex algorithms and to storing of crucial information.
Role in society
Both play extremely important roles in society, commerce, entertainment and science
Every single 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.
Combining components
Both work by combining the processes of several components and parts to perform their tasks.
A computer consists of many parts, including a motherboard (which is also made of several components), the disk drives, the processor, graphic cards and many more... all of which has its own roles in the computer's processes.
Like a computer, the brain is formed out of parts. 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.
Electrical signals
Both work by transmitting "logic signals" to each of their parts. Signals are both electrical
i.e. A computer works by using binary ("on"/"off" logical signals known as "bits", put together as "bytes" to represent data.) To communicate internally between components, represent information and store data.
In a way, neurons in the brain are either "on" or "off" by either firing an action potential or not firing an action potential.
Memory capacity
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.
Self-maintenance
Both computers and brain have repair and "backup" systems.
The brain has "built-in back up 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 in the computer.
Degrading with time
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.
