Neuroscience
Encephalization
The ratio of actual brain size to expected brain size for an animal of that body mass. A measure of relative brain development.
Biological Context
Humans have the highest encephalization quotient (EQ) of any species—our brains are about 7 times larger than expected for a mammal our size. Dolphins and great apes also have high EQs. Encephalization correlates with cognitive abilities, social complexity, and behavioral flexibility.
Business Application
Organizational encephalization: the ratio of 'brain' (strategy, R&D, management) to 'body' (operations, production). High encephalization suggests innovation and adaptability; low encephalization suggests operational efficiency.