1.5.6 RQ-TQ imbalance as a limitation of human brain

In this book set we will systematically discuss how human mind/brain functions in relationships. But let me give a simple explanation of how human brain architecture leads to the RQ-TQ imbalanced evolution. The brain of living being has been organized inside out with humans having the most advanced outer layer referred to as the neocortex that helps in higher thinking process. The outer layers, particularly the well-developed prefrontal cortex, are responsible for our ability to think and learn. These are very flexible, so learn and adapt quickly. But the inner layers, which significantly govern our emotional behavior and relationship manners, are rigid. They rapidly learn from the environment when we are young, and hard to change as we grow older, but continuously influence everything we do. For example, we in a multistore building, new stores can be only built on top, and the bottom layers are difficult to alter. This is the origin of the RQ-TQ imbalanced evolution: TQ is determined by the outer layers of human brain which are flexible and so evolve faster. RQ is determined by the inner layers which are rigid and so evolve slower, taking generations for even small improvement.

Tackling RQ-TQ imbalanced evolution, involves understanding how the various layers of human brain functions, how the inner layers of brain get wired in childhood, and how they interact with outer layers influencing our ideas and behavior. In other words, tackling RQ-TQ imbalance requires understanding one’s mind. Having good knowledge of this helps offset the problem discussed in last paragraph. This book goes in detail in explaining the necessary ideas to understand functioning of human mind, including interaction between various layers of mind and will help in increasing RQ.