This section lays the foundation for normal physiology. Here, we analyze the basic principles that distinguish a living system from inanimate matter. You will study general properties of living organisms, mechanisms of isolation of living beings from an aggressive external environment, as well as fundamental reactions to any changes — irritability and the phenomenon of anticipatory reflection of reality.
In seminars and colloquiums, instructors are most strict about the essence and stages of irritability (crucially — do not confuse it with the narrow concept of excitability!). Pay special attention to P.K. Anokhin's concept of anticipatory reflection: at the exam, you will definitely be required to explain exactly how the organism prepares for upcoming events, relying on past evolutionary and individual experience. Without a firm understanding of these "basics", mastering system-specific physiology will be impossible.