Citation

Evolution of the Brain and Intelligence

Harry J. Jerison

Academic Press, New York (1973)

TL;DR

Defined encephalization quotient (EQ) methodology

Established the encephalization quotient methodology for comparing brain sizes across species. Documents human EQ of ~7-8, meaning human brains are 7-8 times larger than expected for a mammal of equivalent body size. This framework helps understand how cognitive capacity scales with organism size.

Key Findings from Jerison (1973)

  • Defined encephalization quotient (EQ) methodology
  • Human EQ ~7-8 (brain 7-8x larger than expected for body size)
  • Brain mass scales as body mass^0.75 across mammals

Related Mechanisms for Evolution of the Brain and Intelligence

Related Organisms for Evolution of the Brain and Intelligence