Here's why:
* Evolutionary History: The brainstem is the oldest and most primitive part of the brain, having evolved first in early vertebrates. It is responsible for basic survival functions like breathing, heart rate, and sleep-wake cycles. These functions are essential for all animals, regardless of their complexity.
* Shared Structures: The brainstem contains structures like the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain, which are found in all vertebrates. These structures perform fundamental functions that are crucial for life.
* Function: The brainstem is responsible for basic, involuntary functions that are essential for survival. This is similar to the brains of simpler animals that also rely on these basic functions.
While the human brain has evolved much more complex structures like the cerebrum and cerebellum, the brainstem remains a crucial part of our nervous system, responsible for the fundamental functions that are shared with our evolutionary ancestors.