The role of the nervous system is to transmit and process information throughout the body, coordinating responses to internal and external stimuli. It consists of the central nervous system (CNS), including the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which connects the CNS to the rest of the body. It regulates bodily functions, such as movement, sensation, and reflexes, while also playing a crucial role in higher cognitive processes, emotions, and behavior, enabling organisms to navigate and adapt to their environments.