The Nervous System: An overview of its structure

Structurally, the nervous system is divided into two subdivisions, the central nervous system, and the peripheral nervous system. “The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, which occupy the dorsal body

cavity and act as the integrating and command centers of the nervous system” (Marieb & Keller). They receive incoming sensory information and transfer it to different locations based on its intended destination. On the other hand, the peripheral nervous system is everything that is not part of the central nervous system. It is composed of the nerves that branch out of the central nervous system.

The peripheral nervous system then divides into two subsystems, the somatic nervous system, and the autonomic nervous system. The somatic nervous system is in charge of controlling our skeletal muscles and is categorized as the voluntary nervous system, while the autonomic nervous system controls organs, and aspects that are involuntary. The autonomic nervous system then divides into two, the sympathetic nervous system, and the parasympathetic nervous system. While the sympathetic nervous system could be compared to a gas pedal, the parasympathetic nervous system would be compared to the brake pedal. This means that the sympathetic nervous system stimulates our body while the parasympathetic nervous system inhibits. Consecutively, they work to maintain a state of balance within our bodies.

These nerves serve as a basis for communication. Sensory input generates impulses to the central nervous system, which then determines which muscle or gland to activate. Afferent fibers carry impulses to the central nervous system, while efferent fibers carry impulses from the central nervous system to the appropriate organs. Interneurons are neurons that connect motor and sensory neurons. They help originate communication between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The nervous system is vital to comprehend because it keeps one’s body in a state of equilibrium and allows for rapid communication between neurons. This allows for the ability to conduct reflexes and control body movements. The nervous system aids and promotes cognitive capacities, an ability that is crucial to humans.