Phineas Gage (case study)

Phineas Gage was a railroad worker who, in 1848, survived a severe brain injury when an iron rod penetrated his skull, damaging his frontal lobe. Remarkably, he lived for years afterward, but his personality changed drastically—from responsible and friendly to impulsive and reckless. This case provided early evidence that the frontal lobe is crucial for personality, decision-making, and social behavior. Gage’s accident is a foundational case in neuroscience, illustrating how specific brain regions influence behavior and identity.