Physiological Psychology, Brain Structures, and Neuroimaging Techniques Practice Test

In ancient Egyptian belief, the heart was the seat of thought, emotion, and personal essence. They thought intellect, memories, and feelings lived in the heart, guiding behavior and character. Because of this, the heart was left inside the body during mummification, while the brain was discarded. The heart also had a crucial role in the afterlife: in the final judgment, it would be weighed against the feather of Ma'at to determine moral worth. A heart deemed light and pure meant entry into the afterlife, while a heavy heart indicated punishment. This explains why the heart is regarded as the organ of thought and emotion in their worldview.