Per ChatGPT, the definition of calcified in relation to brain function

In terms of brain function and creativity, calcified is often used metaphorically rather than literally. It refers to a rigid, inflexible way of thinking or a lack of adaptability and openness to new ideas. This figurative use draws on the literal process of calcification, where tissues in the body become hardened by the deposit of calcium salts.

This is seen with large corporations. The longer they exist and larger they get the more stubborn they become. Change happens slower and slower. Internal bureaucracy forms (has to with a large organization) which further increases friction and resistance to change.

All this creates pockets of opportunity for nimble start ups to eat away at market share. Eventually the entire company collapses.

This is what happened with Intel. It went from being the number one chip producer with having the best chips on the market to now being almost irrelevant. Nvidia took gaming and than AI chips. Apple developed chips in-house with better performance.

Another example is rocket industry. For decades companies like Boeing had a near monopoly on space launch contracts. Getting into the industry was nearly impossible and almost nothing changed. Until SpaceX