Which part of the nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord?

The central nervous system is the component of the nervous system that comprises the brain and spinal cord. It serves as the primary control center for processing and interpreting sensory information, coordinating movement, and facilitating higher cognitive functions such as thoughts and emotions. The central nervous system integrates and responds to stimuli from the environment, making it crucial for overall bodily function and interaction with the world.

In contrast, the peripheral nervous system consists of all the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord and is responsible for transmitting sensory information to the central nervous system and conveying motor commands from the central nervous system to the rest of the body. The autonomic nervous system is a subset of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate and digestion. Lastly, the somatic nervous system also belongs to the peripheral nervous system and is responsible for voluntary movements and the transmission of sensory information to the brain. Thus, the central nervous system's unique structure and function make it the correct answer to the question about the part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord.