EVOLUTIONARY BRAIN CHANGES: IMPACT ON NEUROBIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS OF BEHAVIOUR

The development of human brain stands for one of the most complex evolutionary processes, enabling the emergence of advanced cognitive, social, and psychological capacities. Through an anthropological lens, this article examines how evolutionary changes in brain structure and function have shaped human neurobiological mechanisms and psychological traits. Drawing on a review of contemporary literature in neuroscience, genetics, psychology and comparative biology, the analysis focuses on key transformations in brain morphology, reorganization of functional regions, evolution of neurotransmitter systems, and development of the stress and response. Findings indicate that, beyond the increase in brain mass, crucial changes occurred in the connectivity between brain regions, in the expression of specific genes, and in chemical communication systems. These adaptations enabled the development of, language, introspection, moral reasoning, empathy, and complex social behaviours, while simultaneously heightening the sensitivity to stress. This article underscores the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the biological foundations of human behaviour, as well as offers directions for future research on how evolutionary processes contribute to psychological adaptation and vulnerability of a modern human.