Question

6. Explain the drawing of the Homunculus. Why are areas such as the lips, hands, and feet drawn larger than areas such as the arms and legs? *

Answer 1

Sensation and movement of different parts of the body are controlled by different areas of the brain.For instance, when you move your index finger, a specific area on the top of your brain triggers a signal that tells the muscles on your index finger to move.  When you touch something with your index finger, a neighboring area of your brain receives a signal about that touch sensation.  


Look at your hand.  Now look at your arm.  Which is bigger?  Your arm, right?  Does that mean your arm has larger area of  the brain devoted to its control? Actually, no.   Sensations and movements of your hand are controlled by more of your brain than sensations and movements of your arm.  This larger area allows you to make finer movements and a have better sense of touch.