Human neocortex evolved in a series of ancestors with less neocortex and fewer cortical areas. Thus, early mammals had little neocortex and roughly 20 cortical areas, while early primates had much more cortex and around 50 cortical areas. Humans have the largest of primate brains that is 80% neocortex with about 200 areas. Other changes include more and more complex cortical networks, such as those for language, and modular and cellular specializations within areas. These and other changes allow the impressive mental abilities of humans.
Keywords: Apes; Cortical areas; Humans; Language; Neocortex; Primates.
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