Influence of the Adam's Apple on Cognitive Functions
The Adam's Apple, a physical characteristic located near the throat, has long been a subject of fascination and misconception. Contrary to popular belief, there is no scientific evidence that suggests the size or prominence of the Adam's Apple significantly impacts cognitive function in humans.
This laryngeal anatomical feature, formed by the thyroid cartilage, becomes prominent during puberty, particularly in males, due to hormonal effects on laryngeal growth. Its primary function is linked to voice pitch and airway protection, rather than neural or cognitive processes.
Studies of brain differences in humans show no meaningful cognitive differences associated with sexual dimorphic physical traits like Adam's Apple size. Differences in brain size between sexes are largely explained by overall body size, with no straightforward correlation to intelligence or cognition.
Research on puberty blockers in transgender individuals mentions changes to the Adam’s apple physically and voice characteristics, but any cognitive effects discussed are related to hormone treatments, not the physical size of the Adam's apple itself.
Neuroscientific research links cognitive functions to brain structures and brain activity, not to external anatomical features such as thyroid cartilage prominence. The larynx and Adam's apple are anatomically distant and functionally unrelated to cognitive brain areas.
In modern times, pseudoscience and internet misinformation have linked the Adam's Apple to cognitive abilities, with theories claiming its size or prominence might indicate intelligence or particular thought patterns. However, these claims lack empirical evidence and are not supported by the scientific community.
It is essential to separate fact from fiction when it comes to understanding the human body. The Adam's Apple, while an intriguing physical characteristic, has no known connection or impact on human cognitive function.
References:
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Adam's apple. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adams-apple/symptoms-causes/syc-20354406
- Giedd, J. N., Blumenthal, J., Jeffries, N., Castellanos, F. X., Toga, A. W., & Rapoport, J. L. (2001). Brain development during childhood and adolescence: a longitudinal MRI study. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 98(17), 9713-9718.
- Hembree, W. C., Cohen-Kettenis, P. T., De Vries, A. L. C., & Meyer, W. J. (2009). Endocrine treatment of transsexual persons: an Endocrine Society position statement. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 94(3), 853-864.
- Kandel, E. R., Schwartz, J. H., & Jessel, T. M. (2000). Principles of Neural Science. New York: McGraw-Hill.
- Nieuwenhuys, R., Voogd, J., & van Huijzen, C. (1988). The human brain at a glance. New York: Springer-Verlag.
