Are reflexes unconditional

Answer 1

Reflexes can be either unconditional or conditional.

Conditional, also referred to as 'Pavlovian', reflexes are those that we can develop. They are weak in humans, but can be observed more readily in other organisms. For more information on these, research Pavlov's dog.

Unconditional reflexes are those which are innate - we're born with them. Neurologically speaking these typically do not have any nerves passing through the brain, unlike conditional reflexes in which neurons pass through higher cortical areas of the brain.

An example of an unconditional reflex in humans is beginning to salivate when we smell something yummy. This is down to our olfactory tracts, which contain receptors which will stimulate a reflex resulting in secretion from the salivary glands.