When a neuron "fires" it is converting chemical energy into electrical energy, just like a battery. The energy ("the ability to do work") provided from these moving electrons is exactly the same as that produced by lightning or a star or a light bulb. Exactly.In the Romantic era there was a huge controversy over whether or not there was some sort of "vital force" in humans that was different from that of other life forms. It was proposed to be a fluid "like electricity" (which was not well understood itself). Well, it's not "like" electricity--it IS electricity.
And that is "fearful and wonderful" enough!
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