The belief that humans only 10% of their potential brain powered is very widespread, even among the well-educated and even psychology majors. This belief opens the door for the unscrupulous to market products and supplements that promise to “expand” brain power. However, evidence is clear that this is not true and has been repeatedly defeated under scientific study (Lilienfeld, Lynn, Ruscio, Beyerstein, 2009).

This belief that 90% of our brains goes unused comes from the fact that our brains are incredibly complex. While taking up just 2% of our body weight, brains however consumer over 20% of the oxygen humans breathe in. If our brains were as inefficient as the 10% myth would lead us to believe, evolution and natural selection would have fixed the problem (Lilienfeld, Lynn, Ruscio, Beyerstein, 2009).

Neurology and neuropsychology studies also disprove this myth. Losing less than 90% of the brain because of an injury or neurological illness can destroy a person’s life, making them a complete vegetable. If we truly used only 9-% of our brains, that accidents that damage the brain would not be so catastrophic. Similarly, use of electrical stimulation experiments on the brain have not shown any dead areas, or areas of non-activity. Every aspect of the brain has an impact on a person’s perception and movements ((Lilienfeld, Lynn, Ruscio, Beyerstein, 2009).

With new technology and scientific advances, there are new ways to visualize brain activity. Brain imaging techniques like EEGs and MRIs help researchers connect parts of the brain responsible for different functions. Even very basic activities require areas of the brain to work together in order for the activity to be completed (Lilienfeld, Lynn, Ruscio, Beyerstein, 2009).

Finally, the last point of proof that disproves this myth is that after an illness or accident, “dead” parts of the brain wither or shrink. Unused brain tissue would either disintegrate or be taken up by other areas ((Lilienfeld, Lynn, Ruscio, Beyerstein, 2009).

This myth is something popularized in popular culture in television shows and movies. In moves like Limitless, where the main character has a pill that allows him to tap into the other 90% of the brain, he is capable of incredible accomplishments and completely changes his life. Similarly, in Lucy, the main character has tapped into her unreached potential and develops superhero powers due to her ability to use huge portions of her brain. This is a theme that reoccurs in many science fiction shows and movies and is a popular concept for modern audiences.

The myth is so popular because people like the idea of having this incredible potential that they have not yet used. It gives them a sense of hope to “know” that their lives could be completely changed if they could only find a pill, meditation technique, or self-help book that let them use more brain power ((Lilienfeld, Lynn, Ruscio, Beyerstein, 2009).

It is not surprising that this myth is not true, as biology and other modern scientists that study brain function have thoroughly identified the different areas of function in the brain. It is surprising however how pervasive and widely accepted this myth is, even among the very educated and especially with scientists. It frequently shows up in books and articles with citations, and seems to be generally accepted as fact. That this myth has persevered for so long is shocking.