The Neocortex
The neocortex, or neomammalian brain, is the highest functioning level of the triune brain. Physically, it is made up of the entirety of the hemispheres and a few smaller neurological groups. The most notable section is the cortex, which is split into the left and right hemispheres. The cognitive abilities that separate human beings from animals are...
October 14, 2009 | Continue reading »
The Limbic System
The limbic system, or the middle part of the brain, is also referred to as the paleomammalian brain. The limbic system is responsible for emotions and instinctual behaviors such as sexual interaction, feeding, fighting, and even fleeing a bad situation. This highly emotional system is responsible for whether or not you agree or disagree with an action...
October 7, 2009 | Continue reading »
The Reptilian Brain
The lowest of the three sections of the triune brain is the reptilian brain, also referred to as the basal or primitive brain. Dubbed the “R-complex” by MacLean, this section of the brain includes the cerebellum, brain stem, and all of their associated structures and is the oldest part of the brain itself. This section of the brain is called the...
September 13, 2009 | Continue reading »
An Overview of the Triune Brain
The triune brain is something I speak of frequently in both our self defense and martial arts classes. The concept of the triune brain was developed by Paul MacLean. MacLean at one point worked at the United States National Institute of Mental Health as the director of the Laboratory of the Brain and Behavior. According to Paul MacLean’s theory, the...
September 7, 2009 | Continue reading »
Martial Arts & Illness
The hysteria surrounding the H1N1 virus, aka the swine flu, really seemed to die down when summer hit. The reason? Children and those with the contagious virus were not longer herded together in enclosed environments. The new school year beginning, coupled with the upcoming regular flu season, seems to have given everyone cause for pause. News reports...
September 7, 2009 | Continue reading »
The Structure of a Street Gang: P4
Over the past few weeks we’ve talked a lot about the actual structure of some of today’s street gangs. Today we’ll wrap it up by talking about gang recruitment and gang activities. Gang Recruitment Some gangs are open to recruiting anyone who is willing to become a member. Others are more ethnic in their choices based on their activities....
August 27, 2009 | Continue reading »
The Structure of a Street Gang: P3
Secondary members, as a whole, are lower on the food chain. Secondary personnel do not have access to inside information. They don’t know where the drugs, products, or cash are stored. They may not broker any deal, indicate terms of payment, or make any type of arrangement unless instructed to do so by a primary gang member. Included within the...
August 18, 2009 | Continue reading »
The Structure of a Street Gang: P2
Let’s continue with our discussion about street gangs and take a look at top tier gang members. Most gangs have several tiers when it comes to the way members are ranked. At the top level you’ll find the top dog figurehead (in the mafia referred to as the Godfather). he is considered an entrepreneur and usually presents two faces to the...
August 14, 2009 | Continue reading »
The Structure of a Street Gang: P1
At least half of the members of today’s gangs are adults. The adults prey upon and recruit juveniles because they are incredibly impressionable. Juveniles are less likely to receive harsh penalties if they are arrested and are eager to impress their superiors, the adult career criminals. Many juveniles feel family and ethnic ties are enough of...
August 12, 2009 | Continue reading »
He’s Back!
Sorry for the long absence but things have been busy. There’s a lot of new material coming soon. In the meantime, check out my first video! a2a_linkname="He’s Back!";a2a_linkurl="http://fgblair.com/2009/05/hes-back/"; If you like what you've been reading, please consider subscribing to Master Forrest G. Blair by Email...
May 19, 2009 | Continue reading »
