Looking for the social and cultural dimension of the human brain

The theories of brain function generally stem from elementary units and mechanisms to explain behavioral and psychological processes. The concept of the reflex arc is still today the paradigm of this trend. Other views have pointed out that molar and dynamic principles of brain functioning are more suitable for the explanation of complex processes. Social and cultural factors, whilst considered fundamental in the development of psychological functions, are neglected in brain research. The relevance of these factors is illustrated for what concerns some topics of growing interest in neuropsychological research, from the hemisphere specialization in people of different cultures to the individual organization of brain functioning.