The Evolution of the Neocortex

The neocortex, the newest part of the brain and the region responsible for higher functions like language, was roughly the same size 200,000 years ago as today. It is only recently, during the last 500 years or so, that society has shifted to a predominantly delayed return environment. With our bad habits, the immediate outcome usually feels good, but the ultimate outcome feels bad. The consequences of bad habits are delayed while the rewards are immediate.