eople have scientifically studied the divide between the left and right hemispheres of the human brain since the 1860s. Around that time, Pierre Paul Broca studied a patient nicknamed “Tan” who developed a lesion in his left brain, which shut down his verbal linguistic center. Further research revealed that the left and right sides of the brain control opposite characteristics of the mind. The left side controls linguistic, logical and factual functions while the right side is more concerned with intuitive and creative functions.

The differences between these hemispheres led psychologists to theorize on their effects on human behavior. Left-brain dominant individuals take things literally. They tend to be very good at math and science. They are analytical and conservative, and they don’t venture much outside the realm of what is clearly possible. A good example of a left-brain dominant individual is Star Trek’s Commander Spock.

Right-brain dominant individuals are creative and intuitive. These people tend to take the greatest risks because “it feels right.” They excel at reading people’s intentions and motives and are the worst people with whom to play poker. A good example of a right-brain dominant individual is Star Trek’s Captain James T. Kirk.

Right off the bat, it’s easy to recognize the right brain as the side through which one might get a message from God, but it’s important to note that God can just as easily speak through facts and figures.  God can work with each side of the brain just as easily as the other.

While it’s difficult for right- and left-brain dominant individuals to get along at first, it’s extremely important for each of them to realize that the other’s opinions and feelings are just as valid as theirs. The examples I chose are not a coincidence. Spock and Kirk were good friends, but only because they learned to recognize and appreciate each other’s viewpoints.

Learning more about the differences that separate us helps to bring us closer together. Understanding our opposites gives us an appreciation that binds us in a truer friendship than ever. As the right and left hemispheres of our brain work together as one unit, so must we Christians, the body of Christ.