Rediscovering the right hemisphere: Unlocking our potential
In 1973, neurobiologist Roger Sperry made a profound observation:
“There appears to be two modes of thinking, verbal and nonverbal, represented separately in left and right hemispheres, respectively. Our educational system, and science in general, tends to neglect the nonverbal form of intellect. What it comes down to is that modern society discriminates against the right hemisphere.”
To me, this is one of the most paradigm-shifting insights of the 20th century. And yet, decades later, we still haven’t fully embraced its implications.
Modern neuroscience has challenged the idea of a simple division between the brain’s left and right hemispheres, pointing out the complexity of how they work together. But from my 30 years of working in the realms of creativity and learning, I’ve found no better way to articulate two distinct ways of being: one rooted in focus and logic, and the other in connection and wholeness.
The right hemisphere of the brain isn’t about abstract theory—it’s about intimacy with the world. It perceives relationships, feelings, and the connections between things. While the left hemisphere is brilliant at dividing, categorizing, and naming, it struggles to unite. It cannot see the world compassionately, because compassion requires integration and understanding of the whole—something the right hemisphere does naturally.
Our culture, dominated by left-brain thinking, has left us disconnected. We prioritize what can be measured and analyzed, while ignoring the intuitive, creative powers that reside in the right hemisphere. These are not trivial or decorative powers—they are essential to seeing beyond ourselves, to accessing the vast intelligence that lies beyond thought, and to imagining a more connected, compassionate world.
If we are to truly evolve as a society, we must learn to honor and draw upon the extraordinary potential of the right hemisphere—potential that has been neglected for far too long.
For more on the powers of the right brain and its language of metaphor, check out my book, Deep Knowing: Entering the Realm of Non-Ordinary Intelligence.
