Week4 PP

Sleep Theories

There are several theories on why animals must sleep. Some of these theories include the "repair and restoration theory," "evolutionary theory," and "information consolidation theory." The repair and restoration theory suggests that physiological processes are restored and revitalized when organisms sleep. This also ties into the other theories, which are likewise all interconnected. The evolutionary theory suggests that sleep is an adaptation. According to this theory, when food supply was short, in order to conserve energy, organisms developed the adaptation to sleep. The information consolidation theory, similar to the repair and restoration theory, suggests that sleep helps process information gathered from the day. It also helps with processing information during periods of being awake. However, these theories do not fully capture why it is necessary to sleep, and some biologists have made claims that sleep is one of evolution's biggest flaws.This is because sleeping organisms are more prone to attack while they are asleep.