What are the two main parts of the nervous system?

The central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) are indeed the two primary components of the nervous system. The central nervous system is comprised of the brain and the spinal cord, serving as the control center for processing information and coordinating responses. It plays a crucial role in higher cognitive functions, as well as in the reflexes and involuntary actions that maintain homeostasis.

On the other hand, the peripheral nervous system connects the central nervous system to the rest of the body. It includes all the nerves that branch out from the brain and spinal cord, facilitating communication between the CNS and limbs or organs. The PNS is further divided into the somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements, and the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary physiological processes. By breaking the nervous system down into these two main parts, we can better understand the distinct yet interconnected roles they play in overall body function. This framework is fundamental for studies in biological psychology and neuroanatomy.