The case study of Phineas Gage
influenced 19th-century discussion about the brain, particularly debate on
cerebral localization. It was the first case that suggested damage to specific
regions of the brain might affect personality and behavior. Through this
psychology study, it is important to consider the ethical issues and
limitations in terms of theory of knowledge.
Phineas Gage was a railroad
construction foreman and while he was blasting a rock, a thirteen-pound iron
rod was shot through his brain. Gage survived the accident and within 2 months
he could function properly. However, his once pleasant personality had been
replaced by less desirable qualities such as lying, excessive use of abusive
language and non-dependability.
Upon examination, it was found
that the change in personality was a result of severe damage to the frontal
lobes of the brain. There was skepticism at the time about whether the brain
could govern human behavior. The case of Phineas Gage was the first to be publicized
that demonstrated a biological basis for behavior. It appears that the frontal
lobes necessary for language and motor function were unaffected whilst the
underside of the frontal lobes were heavily damaged, causing the anti-social
behavior. It is agreed that the brain exhibits localization of function so
damage to a specific part of the brain results in a drastic loss in its
corresponding function.
Some
ethic points to consider is that all of Phineas Gage’s accident and his behavior
afterwards were published, not protecting him and his identity. In addition, the localization of function has been proved to be outdated thus this case study can not be a valid explanation for all situations related to the biological factors and behaviors of the brain.